Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in the back of the mouth during late teenage years or early adulthood, usually between ages 16 and 25. These teeth are called "wisdom teeth" because they appear at a more mature stage of life compared to other permanent teeth.

Most people have four wisdom teeth, with one located in each corner of the mouth. However, some individuals may have fewer or even no wisdom teeth due to genetic variations. While these teeth were historically useful for our ancestors who had larger jaws and needed additional chewing surfaces, modern human diets and jaw structures have made them largely unnecessary.

Dentists often recommend removing wisdom teeth because they can cause several potential problems. Many people's jaws are too small to accommodate these additional teeth, which can lead to impaction, misalignment, or crowding of existing teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth may grow at awkward angles, potentially causing pain, infection, or damage to neighboring teeth.

The removal process is a common dental procedure performed to prevent future complications. Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth extracted, but many people benefit from surgical removal to maintain optimal oral health and prevent potential dental issues. Dentists typically evaluate each patient's specific situation through X-rays and clinical examination to determine the best course of action.