Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, those third molars at the very back of our mouths, are so named because they generally erupt during late adolescence and early adulthood. 

When properly positioned wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset to us. However, when the jaw is not large enough to accommodate these teeth, they can cause dental health problems such as an infection, requiring wisdom tooth removal.

The bottom line is that wisdom teeth most often do not fit well in our mouths and they can cause other teeth to move or lead to gum disease or jawbone problems.

Extraction of wisdom teeth may be recommended when:

• Wisdom teeth only partially erupt. This leaves an opening for bacteria to accumulate around the tooth and cause an infection. Pain, swelling, jaw stiffness and general illness can result
• There is a chance that poorly aligned wisdom teeth will damage adjacent teeth
• A cyst (fluid-filled sac) forms, destroying surrounding structures such as bone or tooth roots

We will be able to diagnose whether your wisdom teeth require removal or other dental care treatment.