Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that typically emerge in young adults between the ages of 17 and 25. They're called "wisdom teeth" because they appear at an age when a person is supposedly gaining maturity and wisdom.

People at different ages often have their wisdom teeth removed due to the following reasons: 

1. Impaction: Wisdom teeth often don't have enough room to emerge properly and can become impacted. This means they get stuck in the jaw or grow at an angle, leading to discomfort, swelling, and infection.
2. Infection and Gum Disease: Because wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, they're hard to clean. This makes them susceptible to infections and gum disease.
3. Crowding and Misalignment: Their eruption can crowd existing teeth and cause misalignment, which may require orthodontic treatment.
4. Cysts and Tumors: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cysts and, rarely, benign tumors, which can cause bone damage if untreated.
5. Tooth Decay: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, making them more prone to decay.
6. Preventative Removal: Sometimes, even if the wisdom teeth haven't yet caused issues, dentists may recommend removal as a preventative measure, especially if imaging indicates potential future problems.

Overall, the removal of wisdom teeth is often a preventive step to maintain oral health and prevent complications that can arise from their growth.