About Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth marked in red
- FACT: Dentophobia is a very common fear in the U.S.
FACT: Wisdom teeth got their nickname from the age when they typically grow in.
Wisdom teeth are actually called third molars. So why do people call them wisdom teeth? The third molars do not grow in until the dental arch becomes larger, which generally occures around the age of 17-25, a time also referred to as the “age of wisdom.”
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Some wisdom teeth will never erupt and will stay impacted. Those that do erupt can cause pain as they break through the gum tissue. Prior to the removal of any teeth, especially wisdom teeth, there are clinical examinations and radiographs that should be taken. Wisdom teeth may be close to the mandibular nerve or sinus cavity and disturbance of these can cause serious issues. Removal of wisdom teeth is a surgical procedure and is often recommended to be done under conscious sedation. If you or your child is experiencing pain or tenderness, erupted wisdom teeth could be one of many causes. Give us a call and we will make the proper diagnosis and design the best treatment plan for the problem.

Impacted wisdom teeth marked in red