Procedure Overview

The extraction of wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, is a common dental procedure performed to remove teeth that cannot grow properly or cause dental problems. They are typically four in number and usually appear in the mouth between the ages of 15 and 25. They can fully erupt, be partially erupted, or be impacted. They typically do not have enough space in the mouth, so they are often misaligned and exert pressure on adjacent teeth, potentially causing damage. Extraction of wisdom teeth is often recommended when the teeth are impacted (trapped in the gum or bone) or causing problems such as pain, infection, tooth decay, shifting of other teeth, or the development of cysts. It is advisable to have them extracted at a young age, typically at the end of adolescence or early adulthood. Indeed, the risks increase with age, and recovery is easier at a younger age.