Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that develop in the back of both the top and bottom jaws of most individuals beginning at about age 12. These teeth commonly begin to come into view (erupt) in the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25 but typically do not have sufficient room to function in the mouth and be adequately cleaned. These non-functional teeth can lead to serious health concerns including damage to adjacent teeth, infection and formation of cysts within the jaws. Wisdom teeth removal is generally less complicated and easier to recover from at a younger age because the roots are shorter, the surrounding bone is softer and there is less chance of damaging nearby nerves and other important structures. Most patients elect to have their wisdom teeth removed while asleep.
All Alaska Oral & Craniofacial Surgery
