Wisdom teeth are the third molars located at the back of the upper and lower jaws. Some people may never develop wisdom teeth, while others may have up to four. These teeth usually begin to erupt between the ages of 17 and 24 and may remain problem free in some cases.
In situations where there is insufficient space in the jaw, wisdom teeth may not erupt properly and can become partially or fully impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth may increase the risk of infection, inflammation, or damage to surrounding teeth.
Symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth may include pain and swelling, jaw stiffness, or difficulty cleaning the area. A dental assessment is required to determine whether removal is recommended.
Wisdom teeth removal is most commonly performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs the tooth and surrounding area while you remain awake. This allows the procedure to be carried out comfortably in most cases.
For patients who experience significant anxiety or require more complex extractions, additional sedation or general anaesthetic options may be discussed. Your dentist will assess your needs and explain which pain management or sedation options are suitable for you.
Tooth extraction is recommended only when other treatment options are not appropriate. Extractions may be required in cases of severe decay, infection, trauma, or where a tooth cannot be restored.
In some situations, tooth extraction may form part of a broader treatment plan, such as orthodontic treatment, where space is required to achieve proper alignment. Any recommendation for extraction is made carefully and only when clinically necessary.
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt into the mouth and are also referred to as third molars. Because they emerge later than other teeth, there may be limited space for them to grow into the correct position.
When wisdom teeth remain partially or fully beneath the gum or jawbone, they are described as impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth may require monitoring or removal depending on symptoms, position, and overall oral health.
