Wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth, otherwise known as third molars, are often the last teeth to emerge through the gums. They grow in your jaws from adolescene and may start to emerge late teenage to early adulthood.

Most people don’t have sufficient room in their jaws to accommodate them. The tooth may fail to erupt or partly erupt, that is, it becomes impacted.

Problem with wisdom teeth

There are a number of reason why wisdom teeth can become problematic and require removal. These include pain, infection, decay, ulcers, gum disease, food trapping and resorption or decay of adjacent teeth, cysts, dental crowding. Your surgeon will discuss urgency and timing of surgery.

Anaesthesia

Wisdom teeth can be removed under a variety of anaesthesia including local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia. The most suitable anaesthetic option is dependent on a number of factors, which will be discussed with you during your consultation.