What’s All the Fuss About Wisdom Teeth?

Do you have questions about your wisdom teeth? Perhaps when do they grow, what their purpose is, and why, if they’re so wise, do dentists insist on pulling them out?!

Also known as the third molars, wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to cut through the gums. They tend to pop through in late adolescence to early adulthood, and while they cause no trouble for some people, if wisdom teeth don’t develop properly, they can cause pain, discomfort, and a host of dental problems.

Read on to understand what all the fuss is with wisdom teeth – and if you’re concerned about yours or your child’s, book in an appointment at Tauranga’s Duncan Dental.

Why are they called wisdom teeth?

First and foremost, what makes your third molars so darn wise?! Well, there’s a couple of theories behind the name. The one our Tauranga dentists hear most often is that they got their name because they cut through later in life than the other teeth, when you are ‘wiser’ than six months or six years old.

If you’re one of the 30 percent of people without wisdom teeth, don’t worry! You’re plenty wise without them.

Why do some people need their wisdom teeth removed?

Some people’s mouths are sufficiently filled up with their first 28 teeth, leaving little room for any extra molars. For these people, wisdom teeth can end up becoming impacted, meaning they get trapped underneath the gums as they don’t have enough space to break through.

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause swollen gums and plenty of pain, and they are also at risk of infection. In severe cases, trapped wisdom teeth can damage surrounding teeth, gums, and even bones. That’s why dentists keep an eye on your wisdom teeth as you grow and advise removing them before they can cause much trouble.

But your Tauranga dentist might recommend removing them even if they aren’t impacted. They might push against other teeth in your mouth and cause crowding. Found at the far end of your mouth, they are hard to reach and clean, which can lead to tooth decay. And sometimes a cyst can form on or around wisdom teeth. These are also good reasons for removal.

When will my dentist recommend removing them?

Your (or your child’s) dentist in Tauranga will track the progress of your wisdom teeth as they begin to grow in those late adolescent, early adult years. If they start to cause problems, are impacted, or are very painful, it’s time for them to go.

Most people get them removed when they emerge, somewhere between 17 and 25 years old. Sometimes they will be removed preventatively, and other times they cause problems later in life, with dentists occasionally recommending wisdom tooth removal for patients in their 30s, 40s, or older.

Speak to Duncan Dental about any tooth pain or discomfort

If you’re feeling pain as your wisdom teeth start to break through the gumline, book in an appointment with your dentist to see if they should be removed. If you’re in Tauranga, the team at Duncan Dental can have a look, advise next steps, and if your wisdom teeth do need to be removed, we’ll guide you through the process.

‍