Wisdom teeth normally erupt between the ages of 18 to 24 years of age.

It is common for wisdom teeth to be impacted, meaning there is no space for them to erupt.

The most common reasons for not having this space are:
1. Our soft diets do not cause wear on our other teeth that would have allowed room for the wisdom teeth to fit in.
2. The lower jaw has not grown enough to accommodate the wisdom teeth
3. You may have inherited large teeth and/or a small jaw.

Wisdom teeth may need to be removed if any of the following problems below are occurring: (an X-ray is required before the wisdom teeth are removed)

Infection When an impacted wisdom tooth starts to push through the gums, an infection may start around the top of the tooth. Infection and inflammation (swollen red gums) can cause pain, swelling and jaw stiffness

Crowding A wisdom tooth may push nearby teeth out of their correct position and may lead to crowding of front teeth.

Cysts Sacks of fluid called cysts may form around the tooth. The cysts may destroy bone, weaken the jaw and cause damage to other teeth and gums

Damage to nearby molars An impacted wisdom tooth may keep pushing against the molars next to it. This could lead to damage of other teeth.

Wisdom teeth removal may be done at the surgery or in a hospital under a general anaesthetic. Your dentist will discuss your options with you. Any material risks associated with your specific dental situation will be explained during your consultation at Enhance Dental.