Wisdom teeth are the last molars or “third molars” that develop on each side of the jaws. They usually emerge in the back of the mouth between the ages of 16-20.
Wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset to the mouth when they are healthy and properly positioned. Often, however, problems develop that require their removal. When the jaw isn’t large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth, they can become impacted (unable to come in or misaligned). Wisdom teeth may also grow in sideways, emerge only part way through the gum, or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively routine procedure and often done with IV sedation so you are asleep during the procedure.