Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to appear in the dental arches, each occupying the last and innermost position on both arches.
By the appearance of these 4 molars, the permanent dentition is completed, although they do not always erupt. Often, one or more wisdom teeth remain embedded in the bone and gums, failing to erupt, leading to hypodontia (incomplete permanent dentition). In other cases, they partially come out of the gum, but do not fully develop. This situation of partial growth causes some chronic inflammatory processes that most likely result in the extraction of the molar.
Here are concrete cases in which wisdom tooth extraction is recommended.
Ø When they partially erupt. In this situation, an inflammation of the gums is created due to the inevitable accumulation of food residues. Thus, cavities can develop not only in the wisdom tooth, but also in the neighboring ones.
Ø When they have grown incorrectly or are not aligned with the other teeth, because the abnormal position makes it difficult or prevents proper cleaning, and may also cause pain, inflamed gums and even dental abscesses.
Ø When the tooth is partially stuck in the gum. In this case, it can push the adjacent teeth, endangering their stability and causing crooked teeth, crowded teeth and difficult chewing, thus generating a more serious dental malocclusion.
Ø When it is blocked in the mandibular/ maxillary bone and is not visible. In this situation, cysts may develop which, in the long run, can cause infections or weaken the supporting bone.
