What does it mean to have impacted wisdom teeth?
– Ryan*
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located in the very back of the mouth.
They are the last teeth to grow in, usually between the ages of 17 and 21.
In many people, wisdom teeth are unable to grow in normally. The teeth either become
stuck under the gum or are only able to partially break through the gum. Dentists
call these teeth impacted. Wisdom teeth usually become impacted because
the jaw doesn't have enough space for all the teeth that are growing in, or because
the tooth comes in at the wrong angle and bumps into the tooth in front of it.
Impacted wisdom teeth are fairly common. Although some people never have any trouble
with them, impacted wisdom teeth can cause problems. An impacted wisdom tooth can
sometimes trap food, plaque, and other debris in the soft tissue around it, leading
to swelling, gum tenderness, cavities, and bad breath.
Because they may damage other teeth — or cause pain or infection —
dentists or oral surgeons often remove impacted wisdom teeth.
*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.