Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth are often associated with pain, swelling, and oral surgery, leading many people to believe they must always be removed. However, this isn't always the case. While many wisdom teeth cause problems because of limited space in the jaw, some erupt normally and function just like any other molar. At Art Family Dental , we carefully evaluate each patient's wisdom teeth to determine whether extraction is necessary. In this guide, we'll explain when wisdom teeth should be removed, when they can safely remain, and the factors your dentist considers before making a recommendation. What Are Wisdom Teeth? Wisdom teeth, also called third molars , are the last permanent teeth to develop. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 . Most people have four wisdom teeth—one in each corner of the mouth—but some people may have fewer or none at all. Because they erupt later than the rest of the teeth, there often isn't enough room in the jaw for them to grow pro...