Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars, typically appearing between the late teens and early twenties. In some cases, they come in normally with enough space to grow. However, for many people, wisdom teeth can cause issues as they begin to break through the gums. If a wisdom tooth is impacted, it means it’s growing in at an angle instead of straight, which can lead to pain, uneven growth, or only partially breaking through.
Impacted wisdom teeth can damage nearby teeth and the jawbone. Because they’re difficult to clean, they also create a spot where bacteria can build up, increasing the risk of infection or decay. To avoid these complications, it’s often recommended to remove impacted wisdom teeth. Routine dental exams and x-rays help monitor their development and determine if removal is needed.