Wisdom teeth, also referred to as the “third molars”, and are as important as other teeth, but more prone to problems during their eruption (breaking through the gum tissue).
Since wisdom teeth are the last to erupt — usually between the ages of 17 and 21 — there often is little room left in the mouth.
As a result, wisdom teeth may erupt sideways, only partially, or become trapped (impacted), leading to pain, infection, and swelling at the gum line and in the face.
When any of these conditions arise, your dentist may determine that wisdom tooth extraction is necessary.