Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the very back of the mouth and usually come through between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people never develop them; in others they come through into place without problems.
When is removal considered?
Removal of a wisdom tooth may be recommended in these situations:
- Recurring inflammation and swelling of the gum around the tooth
- Decay in the wisdom tooth or the neighbouring tooth
- Pressure on or damage to the root of the neighbouring tooth
- A cyst forming around the tooth
- As part of an orthodontic or prosthetic treatment plan
When can it be monitored?
Wisdom teeth that have fully come through, meet the opposing tooth, can be cleaned and cause no problems can often be left in place. For impacted teeth that are fully inside the bone and cause no problems, regular X-ray monitoring may also be an option.
How is the decision made?
The decision is based on an oral examination and X-ray findings. If needed, three-dimensional imaging may be requested to see the tooth's relationship to the nerve canal. Whether removal is needed, and when, varies from person to person; what is suitable for you is determined by an examination.