Wisdom Teeth: Everything You Need to Know!
Frequently Asked Questions | Wisdom Teeth Queries
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final molars to erupt in the dental arch, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 25.
In some cases, extraction of the wisdom teeth is recommended to prevent problems; a lack of space for their eruption can lead to misalignment and consequent hygiene difficulties, inflammation of surrounding tissues, or even issues with the temporomandibular joint.
In some cases, extraction of the wisdom teeth is recommended to prevent problems; a lack of space for their eruption can lead to misalignment and consequent hygiene difficulties, inflammation of surrounding tissues, or even issues with the temporomandibular joint.
How many wisdom teeth can a person have?
There are usually four wisdom teeth, which may or may not erupt into the dental arch. When they do not erupt, they are called impacted teeth, a situation that often causes confusion for patients who can see some teeth but not others.
It is also possible that a wisdom tooth simply does not exist, a condition known as agenesis of the wisdom tooth. This is detected during a consultation through a radiographic examination.
It is also possible that a wisdom tooth simply does not exist, a condition known as agenesis of the wisdom tooth. This is detected during a consultation through a radiographic examination.
Is it possible to have more than four wisdom teeth?
Although it is not very common, yes, it is possible; these are called supernumerary teeth or extra wisdom teeth. If clinical and radiographic examinations indicate that these teeth are improperly positioned in the arch or are compromising neighbouring structures, their extraction may be recommended to prevent potential problems.
Do wisdom teeth always cause pain when they erupt?
Because they are the last teeth to erupt, there is often no available space in the dental arch for their proper positioning. This can lead to increased pressure, inflammation of surrounding structures, and often local and/or radiating pain during the eruption period.
How is wisdom tooth extraction performed?
Wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure usually performed under local anesthesia. In certain cases, after proper evaluation, sedation or even general anesthesia may be used.
A thorough clinical assessment and appropriate diagnostic imaging, such as panoramic X-rays (orthopantomography) and/or CBCT/CT scans, are essential before the procedure.
A thorough clinical assessment and appropriate diagnostic imaging, such as panoramic X-rays (orthopantomography) and/or CBCT/CT scans, are essential before the procedure.