What are wisdom teeth?
Think of wisdom teeth as the last set of molars that come in at the back of your mouth. They usually emerge in your late teens to early twenties, which is why they’re often called ‘wisdom’ teeth—they come in when you’re considered more mature. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth, but not everyone gets all four.
These teeth are called ‘third molars’ because they’re the last ones in the series of molars used for grinding food. As we evolve, our jaws have gotten smaller, and there’s often not enough room for these teeth to fit properly. This can lead to various issues, such as crowding or impaction—where the teeth get stuck beneath the gum line and can’t emerge properly.
What are the common symptoms I may experience with an impacted wisdom tooth?
Impacted wisdom teeth often lead to symptoms such as pain and swelling in the jaw, headaches or jaw aches, difficulty opening the mouth, bad breath, and inflammation or infection of the gums. Occasionally, wisdom teeth may present problems without any noticeable symptoms. At Reneu Smiles, our skilled team will use X-rays to evaluate the position and alignment of your wisdom teeth if there are concerns about potential issues.
When do I need to get them removed?
Wisdom teeth often pose challenges due to their position at the back of the mouth. Deciding whether to remove them depends on several factors related to their growth and the potential problems they might cause. If you’re experiencing discomfort, or if your dentist identifies issues such as crowding, impaction, or infection, removal might be recommended. Understanding these factors can help determine the best course of action for maintaining your oral health.
Your dentist will use X-rays and clinical exams to determine if your wisdom teeth need to be removed and will discuss the best timing for the procedure based on your specific situation.
Can wisdom teeth be left in if they aren’t causing any issues?
If your wisdom teeth are properly aligned, healthy, and not creating any problems, they may not need to be removed. Our skilled dentists at Reneu Smiles can evaluate your wisdom teeth to determine if they are in good condition and can safely remain in place.