Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars, usually emerging in the late teens or early twenties. They don’t need removal if there’s enough space, proper alignment, and healthy gums. However, if they grow improperly—sideways, partially, or trapped under the gums—they may need extraction. Impacted wisdom teeth can shift positions while trying to erupt, potentially causing pressure that moves other teeth and disrupts alignment.
Don't wait until it causes pain or problems
Real Case
Age 14 :
The wisdom tooth began to develop
Easier to Treat
At 14 years old, the patient's wisdom teeth are developing with incomplete roots, which makes extraction relatively simple.
Age 16 :
The wisdom tooth damaged the adjacent tooth
More Complicated After 2 Years
Two years later, the wisdom teeth were fully formed but had erupted improperly, damaging the adjacent tooth, which caused pain and needed to be extracted. Braces were then used to move the wisdom tooth into the gap, replacing the lost tooth. This approach was much more complicated than the extraction at age 14.
Potential Problems
Crowding
Wisdom teeth can put pressure on nearby teeth when there isn't enough space in the jaw for them to come in, causing misalignment and crowding.
A
Cavities & Gum Disease
When wisdom teeth are partially erupted or impacted, they can create difficult-to-clean areas in the back of the mouth, making cavities and gum disease very common.
B
Pain & Discomfort
If wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck under the gum), they can cause infection, swelling, and sharp pain in the gums or jaw.
C
Why should I take action while I'm young?
Your dentist may suggest removing your wisdom teeth, even if you don’t have any pain. As you get older, the roots of these teeth grow stronger, making removal harder and riskier. Additionally, the healing process tends to be slower as people get older, which is another reason to consider removal at a younger age.
Benefits of Early Removal
Prevent Future Problems
Early extraction of wisdom teeth can prevent potential issues such as impaction, infections, and damage to neighboring teeth.
Faster Healing
Tissues heal faster when you're young, and the bone is more flexible, promoting better chances for new bone growth in the socket.
Fewer Complications
By the late teens to early 20s, the roots of the wisdom teeth are still forming and have not emerged yet, making extraction less complicated.
What to expect at the free consultation?
Examination & X-rays
The dentist will assess the position of your wisdom teeth based on your X-rays*, how they’re coming in, and if they are causing any problems.
Treatment Plan
Based on the assessment, the dentist will explain whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, and if so, discuss different removal methods.
Cost Discussion
If you choose to proceed, the treatment coordinator will explain the costs and provide an estimate of your insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses. There’s no pressure or obligation.
*If you don’t have X-rays on file, there may be an extra charge to take them.