MICHIANA ORAL AND
MAXILLOFACIAL
SURGERY, INC.
JAY ASDELL, DDS
707 North Michigan St
Suite 300
South Bend, IN 46601
(574) 289-0080
(800) 736-6053

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WISDOM TEETH

Wisdom teeth are also known as the third molars and are numbered as Teeth Numbers 1, 16, 17 and 32. Wisdom teeth vary greatly in size, form, position and development. When fully erupted and in occlusion with the opposite third molar, the wisdom teeth can be a supplement to chewing. However, if the wisdom teeth are unerupted or impacted (a tooth that has failed to erupt to its normal position and is prevented from doing so by bone, soft tissue or the adjacent tooth), it is necessary that the wisdom teeth be removed.

Normal Position....................................................Abnormal Position

If an impacted tooth is left, there are many possible problems. The partially impacted tooth may become infected causing bone loss associated with the adjacent teeth. Cystic formation can occur with fully impacted teeth which can lead to bone and tooth destruction. Tumors have been found in the walls of cysts.

The optimal age for third molar extraction is usually around 17 or 18 years of age. Certain exceptions are made but the older the patient gets to be, the more difficult the extractions. The potential for medical history problems increases with age and also the ability to recover from surgery decreases with age. It makes things easier if the wisdom teeth are removed at an appropriate age.

If extraction is required, the teeth can be removed under general or local anesthesia.

The following are links that provide more detailed information regarding this type of procedure.
Wisdom Teeth