The last set of molars found at the back of your mouth are known as wisdom teeth. Most individuals can expect these teeth to emerge between 17 and 25 years old. A person’s wisdom set might consist of four teeth, but this varies because some individuals may have fewer—or none at all.
Understanding wisdom teeth is important because they can cause problems if they don’t grow properly, and you may even need tooth extractions near you by a dentist.
Which Tooth Is the Wisdom Tooth?
The last set of molars is called wisdom teeth. They can be found at the very back of your mouth, behind your second molars. Normally, wisdom teeth are present in both your upper and lower jaws, one on each side. However, it is not necessary for everyone to have all four of them. Others may have fewer, and still, while others may not develop wisdom teeth at all.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
In the past, our ancestors required wisdom teeth because they consumed foods such as meat, roots, and nuts, which are tough to chew. This was because their jaws were larger so that the wisdom teeth were not crowded and could easily fit in. Today, people eat softer foods, and our jaws have become smaller over time. As a result, wisdom teeth lack enough space in the mouth to emerge normally.
What Happens When Wisdom Teeth Don’t Grow Properly?
Sometimes, wisdom teeth do not have enough room to come in straight. When this happens, they may:
- Grow at an angle and press against other teeth
- Get stuck under the gums
- Partially come out, making them hard to clean
When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it means the tooth is trapped under the gums or against another tooth. This can cause pain and other problems.
Wisdom Tooth Symptoms: When to Visit a Dentist?
If your wisdom teeth are coming in correctly, you may not feel anything. But if they are impacted or growing incorrectly, you may notice symptoms such as:
- Pain or swelling in the back of your mouth
- Red or swollen gums around the wisdom tooth
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth
If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a dentist near you. The dentist will check your mouth and may take an X-ray to see how your wisdom teeth are growing.
Do You Need to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. A dentist will decide based on:
- If the teeth are growing correctly: When wisdom teeth come in straight and do not cause problems—they can remain.
- If they are impacted: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth.
- If they are hard to clean: When wisdom teeth are difficult to reach, it may lead to cavities, gum disease, and more.
What Happens During Wisdom Tooth Removal?
If your dentist recommends tooth extractions in North Edmonton, the procedure is simple:
- Numbing the area: The dentist will use anesthesia to make sure you do not feel pain.
- Removing the tooth: The dentist will remove the wisdom tooth carefully. If the tooth is impacted, they may need to make a small cut in the gum.
- Healing time: Most people feel better within a few days, but it may take a couple of weeks for the gums to fully heal.
How to Take Care of Your Wisdom Teeth?
Even if you do not need to remove your wisdom teeth, you should keep them clean to avoid problems. Here are some tips:
✔ Brush and floss carefully around your wisdom teeth.
✔ Utilize an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent infection.
✔ Visit your dentist regularly for dental checkups.
If you feel pain or notice any wisdom tooth symptoms, do not ignore them. A dentist can help keep your teeth healthy.
Protect Your Teeth, Remove Wisdom Teeth Today!
Beverly Heights Dental provides quality dental care for all your dental needs, including wisdom tooth removal. Our experienced dentist in North Edmonton ensures a comfortable and stress-free experience, using the latest technology to keep your smile healthy. Whether you’re dealing with pain or need a routine check-up, we’re here to help.
Don’t wait for wisdom tooth pain to get worse. Protect your teeth—schedule your appointment today!
