Wisdom teeth are situated at the very back of your mouth, effectively the last two molars. Molars are teeth that grind the food we eat, allowing you to break it into small particles and swallow it safely. You can get up to four of them, two on the bottom and two on the top of your mouth.

Wisdom teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 21, it should be noted that not all adults have wisdom teeth. If you have wisdom teeth then you have two choices:

1. Have them removed

2. Keep them!

Wisdom teeth appear after your mouth has fully formed and your other teeth are in position. This means that there is limited space for them. 

If this happens your wisdom teeth are likely to arrive crooked. They may also grow at an angle, placing pressure on the other teeth in your mouth. If either of these cases applies to you then you need to have your wisdom teeth removed by a reputable Erskineville dentist.

It’s important to visit your dentist regularly between the ages of 16 and 19, this is when the wisdom teeth will start to appear and they’ll be able to identify any issues. 

If the wisdom teeth are causing pain or growing at an angle then the earlier they are removed the better. In short, they’ll be removed before you’re 21.

This isn’t just the time when the issue can be spotted and resolved, Up to the age of 21, your bones and tooth roots are still forming and are not fully hardened. That means it’s easier to remove wisdom teeth before you turn 21. 

If you don’t have regular dental checkups badly aligned wisdom teeth may not be noticed. This can lead to a gum infection. This is also the case if the wisdom teeth have partially broken the surface but not fully arrived. The damaged gum will allow bacteria in and cause an infection. 

If your tooth has partially erupted or you have pain around the wisdom teeth you need to seek professional help, they should be removed to prevent issues with your other teeth and infections.

Of course, if your wisdom teeth grow into your mouth properly you’ll find that they are the same as the rest of your teeth. They’ll need the same level of care and, providing they never give you any issues, you can look after them in the same way as the rest of your teeth. 

Regular dental checkups will ensure your wisdom teeth are monitored and any issues noted early enough to resolve them. IF issues are noted then the best approach is to remove them, the earlier the better. 

If you don’t experience any issues then you can keep your wisdom teeth, they’ll be checked during your annual dental visit and can stay in your mouth for life, providing they remain healthy.