When the jaw isn’t large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth, they may grow sideways, emerge only part way from the gum or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone (impacted).

Extraction may be recommended when:

• Wisdom teeth only partially erupt. This leaves an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause an infection. Pain, swelling, jaw stiffness and general illness can result.
• There is a chance that poorly aligned wisdom teeth will damage adjacent teeth.
• A cyst (fluid-filled sac) forms, destroying surrounding structures such as bone or tooth roots.

Ask about the health and positioning of your wisdom teeth. Your dentist may recommend removal or have your confer with an oral surgeon for further options.