Wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth are also known as third molars. They are the last teeth to develop in the back of the mouth, and will try to erupt into the mouth in the late teenage years and early twenties (supposedly the age of achieving wisdom).

Impacted wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth become impacted when there is no space for them to erupt into the mouth completely. They can either be impacted against the gums, against the jawbone, or against the adjacent teeth. They lie in a compromised position and are not useful for proper function. They can be difficult to clean, often leading to infection around the gums, or decay in the neighbouring teeth. They can also lead to formation of jaw cysts. Impacted wisdom teeth are also one of a number of factors in a crowded dentition and are often removed for example, after having orthodontic treatment.

Surgical removal of wisdom teeth is a relatively common procedure and can be done either under intravenous sedation or general anaesthetic.