Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that erupt in the back of the upper and lower adult mouth. Most people lack adequate space to fully accommodate the teeth in the mouth resulting in “impactions” that lead to several predictable problems: infection (pain & swelling), tooth decay, crowding, bite alteration, and damage to adjacent teeth.
Potentially problematic wisdom teeth are screened for while they are coming in during the teenage years. Extractions at this time are associated with less complication risk and quicker recovery.