Wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth to develop, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. They are also known as third molars and sit at the very back of the mouth. While some people have four wisdom teeth, others may have fewer or none at all.
Anthropologists believe wisdom teeth were useful for our ancestors, whose coarse diets caused more tooth wear and tooth loss. Today, our diets are much softer, and our jaws are generally smaller, which means there is often less room for wisdom teeth to erupt properly.
If you have wisdom teeth and think you may need a tooth extraction, why not give our dental clinic a call? Our team looks forward to welcoming you to Northside Dental Solutions.
When Does a Wisdom Tooth Need to Be Removed?
Not every wisdom tooth requires extraction. If a wisdom tooth erupts into the correct position, functions normally and is easy to keep clean, it may not need treatment.
However, your dentist may recommend extraction if a wisdom tooth:
- Becomes painful or infected
- Is partially erupted and difficult to clean
- Causes repeated gum inflammation
- Damages a neighbouring tooth
- Develops decay that cannot be predictably restored
- Is impacted or positioned in a way that may lead to future problems
Your dentist in Clayfield, QLD, will assess your individual situation with a clinical examination and dental x-rays before discussing the most appropriate treatment options.
Interesting Facts About Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are full of surprises. Here are a few interesting facts:
- Some people are born without one or more wisdom teeth because the teeth never develop.
- Wisdom teeth are the teeth most commonly affected by impaction, meaning they remain trapped beneath the gums or jawbone.
- Wisdom teeth can grow at different angles, including sideways or towards neighbouring teeth.
No two wisdom tooth extractions are exactly alike. The complexity of the procedure depends on the position of the tooth, the shape of the roots and whether the tooth has fully erupted.
Regular dental examinations and x-rays can help monitor wisdom teeth before they cause symptoms.
Need a Wisdom Tooth Exam in Clayfield, QLD?
Even if your wisdom teeth are not causing discomfort, regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor their development over time. Early assessment helps identify changes in position, signs of disease or other concerns before they become more difficult to manage.
If you have pain, swelling around the back teeth or difficulty opening your mouth, we invite you to arrange an appointment with your Clayfield dentist. They can assess your wisdom teeth, explain your treatment options and recommend care based on your individual needs.
We welcome your call!