IMPACTED TEETH

Other teeth, including the cuspids (canines) and bicuspids (premolars), can also become impacted and lead to similar issues.

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of teeth to come in. While sometimes these teeth emerge properly when there is enough space in the jaw, more often, they do not. Frequently, one or more of these molars may not align correctly or fully emerge through the gum line, resulting in them becoming trapped or “impacted” between the jawbone and gum tissue. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to issues like swelling, pain, and infection in the surrounding cheek and gum tissue. They may also cause lasting damage to adjacent teeth, gums, and bone, and sometimes lead to the development of cysts or tumors that can erode parts of the jaw. Consequently, we advise the surgical removal of impacted wisdom teeth. Additionally, it's not only wisdom teeth that can become impacted; other teeth, such as cuspids and bicuspids (canines and premolars), can also be impacted and create similar problems.

Why “wisdom” teeth? - Third molars have been known as “teeth of wisdom” since the 17th century. - They have been referred to as “wisdom teeth” since the 19th century. - Wisdom teeth typically emerge later than other teeth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. - The term “wisdom teeth” reflects the idea that they come in at an age when a person is more mature and "wiser" compared to when the other teeth emerge. Third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, have been referred to as "teeth of wisdom" since the 17th century and as "wisdom teeth" since the 19th century. They typically emerge much later than other teeth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Linguists suggest that they are called wisdom teeth because they erupt at a time when individuals are considered to be more mature and wiser, reflecting the transition into adulthood.

Why is it mandatory to remove wisdom teeth? Given their unpredictable and often troublesome nature, wisdom teeth can frequently become a source of discomfort and issues for many individuals. As the last set of molars to erupt, wisdom teeth often encounter problems due to the limited space available in the jaw. When these teeth emerge misaligned or become trapped, they can cause significant irritation to the surrounding gum tissue. The pressure from misaligned wisdom teeth can lead to inflammation, pain, and even severe infections in the gum area. Additionally, impacted wisdom teeth, which fail to fully break through the gum line or are incorrectly positioned, can exacerbate these problems. These issues can result in chronic discomfort, increased susceptibility to infections, and complications that might require surgical intervention to alleviate the associated pain and prevent further dental problems.