What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Gilbert, AZ

Diagram of an impacted wisdom tooth at San Tan Oral Surgery in Gilbert, AZ

Those between the ages 17 and 21 typically experience the growth of a third set of molars that are known as wisdom teeth. Teeth are categorized according to their location and function. While sharp teeth help bite and tear food into smaller pieces, flatter teeth help grind food. Wisdom teeth are a type of flatter teeth located all the way in the back of your mouth. Wisdom teeth get their name from the fact that they are the last teeth to emerge, presumably when you’re wiser.

How Frequently Do People Get Wisdom Teeth?

All the teeth a person will ever have are present at birth. The first set of 20 baby teeth erupt and fall out. Then 32 permanent teeth appear. The first set of molars become evident when a person is six years of age, the second set appears at the age of 12, and the final set grows in somewhere before the age of 21.

While most adults experience the development of their wisdom teeth, others don’t. This doesn’t mean that wisdom teeth aren’t there. It simply means that not all wisdom teeth erupt and become visible. A dental X-ray is the most suitable way to find out if you have wisdom teeth under your gums.

However, whether visible or not, wisdom teeth can cause certain oral health problems, especially when they get impacted.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed?

Our jaws have shrunk over time due to evolutionary progress. Some scientists suggest that as the human brain grew bigger, the jaw shrunk to accommodate for space. Having a smaller jaw means much less space in the mouth for teeth one is supposed to have. Most people’s jaw stops growing by the age of 18, but wisdom teeth often emerge at the age of 19. So, the main problems caused by wisdom teeth are because they don’t fit aptly.

Here are some of the most common problems caused by wisdom teeth:

•	Crooked teeth
•	Increased tooth decay
•	Crowded teeth
•	Jaw pain
•	Wisdom teeth growing in sideways
•	Cysts under the gums
•	Tumors

Dealing with Wisdom Teeth

The best way to deal with wisdom teeth is through wisdom tooth extraction. Those who get their wisdom teeth extracted at a younger age heal better from surgery. This helps tackle most potential problems before they start.

There are many risks linked to wisdom teeth removal surgery, so remember to ask a lot of questions when deciding if it’s a good idea to have your teeth removed. If you decide against getting your wisdom tooth removed, then make sure your dentist closely monitors the situation of your teeth as wisdom teeth become more problematic over time.

A maxillofacial surgeon or a professional dentist can help conduct your wisdom tooth removal. They will provide you with clear instructions on preparing for your surgery and also for your recovery period.

San Tan Oral Surgery is here to help you with all of your wisdom teeth concerns. Whether you’re looking to get wisdom teeth removal surgery or simply want advice, call us at (480) 604-2592 to book an appointment. Read our page on what age do wisdom teeth need to be removed to start now.

Office hours

Mon, Tue, Thur: 8:00am to 5:00pm
Wed: By Appointment
Fri: 8:00am to 3:00pm

Location

3303 S. Lindsay Rd.
Gilbert, AZ 85297-2100

Contact

Office: (480) 604-2592

Connect

Santanxray@gmail.com

What Are Wisdom Teeth - San Tan Oral Surgery - Gilbert, AZ
Wisdom teeth get their name from the fact that they are the last teeth to emerge. San Tan Oral Surgery is here to help with your wisdom teeth, call us now!
San Tan Oral Surgery, 3303 S. Lindsay Rd. Suite 112, Gilbert, AZ 85297-2100 - (480) 604-2592 - santanoralsurgery.com - 11/22/2024 - Related Phrases: Dental Implants Gilbert AZ -

What Are Wisdom Teeth?Gilbert, AZ