What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the upper and lower third molars, located at the very back of the mouth. They are called wisdom teeth  because usually they come in between ages 17 and 21-when a person is old enough to have gained some wisdom.

 

What causes problems with

wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth that are healthy and in the right

position usually don't cause problems. You may

have a problem if any of the following occur:

• Your wisdom teeth break through your gums only partway                                                                                              because of a lack of space. This can cause a flap of gum tissue                                                                                                to grow over them. The flap can trap food and lead to a gum                                                                                                    infection.

• They come in crooked or facing the wrong direction.

• Your jaw isn't large enough to give them room. Your wisdom                                                                                              teeth may get stuck (impacted) in your jaw and not be able                                                                                                      to break through your gums.

• They are so far back in your mouth or crowded that you have                                                                                          trouble cleaning around them.