Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the four permanent adult teeth located in the back corners of the mouth, at the top and bottom. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 21, and may require extraction if they don't have enough space in the mouth. Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure that can sometimes be considered oral surgery. Whether or not you need to undergo oral surgery to remove your wisdom teeth will depend on their position and whether they have already come out through the gumline.
If they are properly aligned, with enough space in the mouth, they may not need to be removed. However, impacted wisdom teeth may require a surgical approach that involves making an incision in the gum tissue and removing the bone. To prevent potential problems in the future, some dentists and oral surgeons recommend extracting wisdom teeth even if they are not currently causing any issues. Most people experience little or no pain after wisdom teeth removal surgery. Swelling and mild discomfort can be expected for about three days, and it may take a few weeks for your mouth to fully heal.
Dental specialists disagree on the usefulness of removing asymptomatic impacted wisdom teeth that don't cause any problems. By removing wisdom teeth, you can avoid them pushing adjacent teeth apart when they come out and potentially ruining years of orthodontic work. If you're considering having your wisdom teeth removed, it's important to talk to your dentist or oral surgeon about the risks and benefits of this procedure.
