Wisdom Teeth

What are they?

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to appear, at the back of the mouth, from the late teens onwards. Most people have four wisdom teeth but it is not unusual to have fewer - even none.

Because they are the last teeth to form, there sometimes isn't room for them. They come through at an angle, pressing against the teeth in front or the bone behind.
They push against the teeth further forward and can cause disturbances in the occlusion. Sometimes impacted lower wisdom teeth push the lower teeth forward and alter the bite causing the upper front teeth to move forward as well.

What will my dentist do?

Watching how your teeth and jaws grow is part of your regular dental care. Do tell your dentist if you think there may be a problem.

• X-rays can show where the wisdom teeth are in the jaw and how much room there is for them to come through, as well as showing if they are causing any damage to the teeth in front.

• The x-rays will also show how simple or difficult it may be to take a wisdom tooth out. The dentist might refer you to a specialist to have your wisdom teeth removed.

As wisdom teeth are coming through, the surrounding gum becomes inflamed and sore. This is called 'pericoronitis'. It may settle down or come and go over a period. It is usually better to remove a wisdom tooth after you have had pericoronitis because they often continue to cause trouble.

If you need to have a wisdom tooth removed, you should be able to fit it in with work or other commitments. Sometimes, all wisdom teeth are removed in hospital under general anaesthetic. You may need two or three days off work.

What are the benefits of removing wisdom teeth?

• If you have your wisdom teeth removed, there should be no more pain and infection.

• It will stop any damage to the teeth in front.