What Is a Wisdom Tooth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Because they emerge during adulthood, they are commonly referred to as “wisdom teeth.” However, today many of these teeth do not have enough space to erupt properly within the dental arch.

When Should It Be Removed?

Wisdom tooth removal is recommended in the following situations:

  • When it erupts in a way that crowds the other teeth (because even after removal, the teeth will not straighten on their own)
  • When it is positioned incorrectly and makes the area difficult to clean
  • When it poses a risk of causing decay in the neighboring tooth
  • In impacted teeth detected at an early age that may carry a future risk of cyst formation or infection

Especially when removal is performed at a younger age, the wound can heal completely and the space can fill with bone.

When Can You Wait?

Not every impacted wisdom tooth needs to be removed. Impacted teeth that do not cause problems at an older age are usually removed only if they create a problem or interfere with a planned treatment. Surgery for impacted wisdom teeth at an older age requires more careful evaluation in terms of surgical difficulty and the healing process.

Therefore, some wisdom teeth can be left in place with regular check-ups, provided that they are not forming a cyst or damaging the roots of neighboring teeth.

How Is the Decision Made?

The decision about a wisdom tooth is made individually rather than according to a single rule. The following factors are taken into consideration:

  • The position of the tooth and its eruption status
  • Its possible effects on neighboring teeth
  • The patient’s age and overall oral health
  • Evaluation of the risk of cysts or infection with X-rays

In Summary

Removing a wisdom tooth is not always necessary, but waiting when a tooth is likely to cause problems can also be risky. The right decision can only be made after a clinical examination and X-ray evaluation. If you experience pain, pressure, or difficulty cleaning the back of your mouth, having the tooth checked by a dentist is the best way to understand its condition.