 Overview
Wisdom teeth are a valuable asset to the
mouth when they are healthy and properly
positioned. Often, however, problems
develop that require their removal. When
the jaw isn't large enough to accommodate
wisdom teeth, they can become impacted
(unable to come in or misaligned). Wisdom
teeth may grow sideways, emerge only
part way from the gum or remain trapped
beneath the gum and bone.
Extraction of wisdom teeth is generally
recommended when:
- Wisdom teeth only partially erupt.
This leaves an opening for bacteria
to enter 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.
Patients should ask the dentist about the
health and positioning of their wisdom teeth.
The dentist may make a recommendation for
removal or send the patient to an oral surgeon
for further evaluation.
Additional
Resources
ADA Dental Minute
News Release
Please note: The ADA does not provide specific answers
to individual questions about fees, dental problems, conditions, diagnoses,
treatments or proposed treatments, or requests for research. Information about
dental referrals, complaints and a variety of dental procedures may
be found here. You can also refer to our Frequently
Asked Questions page for answers to common questions.
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