Wisdom teeth: extract or not?

Third molars, known as wisdom teeth, usually begin to emerge around age 17. If they have not appeared by 25, either you do not have them or there is not enough space in the jaw.

When extraction is unnecessary

If a wisdom tooth comes through without complications, has enough room in the arch, sits in the correct position and does not damage surrounding tissue or neighbouring teeth, it can stay.

When it may be needed

• Partial eruption: the tooth stays partly covered by gum, creating a pocket where inflammation repeats. Removing the excess tissue or the tooth solves it.
• Wrong angle: a tilted tooth cannot erupt properly, reduces chewing efficiency and can cause gum inflammation, decay in the second molar, abscesses and bite deformation.
• No opposing tooth: a wisdom tooth with no partner in the other jaw gradually damages the gum it bites on. Long-term irritation is a risk worth discussing with your dentist.

Every case is different

Root shapes vary from person to person, so extraction ranges from a simple removal to a surgical procedure. A panoramic X-ray tells us which one you need before we begin.