What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars. Normally people have three permanent molars that develop in each quadrant of the mouth; upper, lower, right and left. The first molars usually grow into the mouth at around six years of age. The second molars grow in at around age 12. The third molars usually will try to grow in at around age 17 to 21 years. Since that is considered to be the age when people become wiser, third molars gained the nickname, "wisdom teeth." Actually, they are no different than any other tooth except that they are the last teeth to erupt, or grow into the mouth. They are just as useful as any other tooth if they grow in properly, have a proper bite relationship and have healthy gum tissue around them. Unfortunately, this does not always happen.

Wisdom Teeth: Is it Wise to Remove Them?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to grow in the back of the mouth. Common misunderstandings surround their name origin, removal reasons and pain sources, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), an organization of general dentists dedicated to continuing education.

"The name 'wisdom teeth' is age-related – third molars don't erupt until teenage years and beyond, when people theoretically are more wise to the world," says AGD spokesperson Trey Petty, DDS, FAGD.

Avoid Dry Socket With Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Each year, millions of Americans have their wisdom teeth removed. The vast majority of patients heal flawlessly, with little discomfort and swelling, thankful impacted or painful wisdom teeth are no longer a daily woe.

However, a small percentage of patients experience dry socket (alveolar osteitis) – the most common complication following tooth extractions and one that may be avoided by following expert recommendations.

Check Menstrual Calendar for Tooth Extraction

Dry socket, the most common postoperative complication from tooth extractions, delays the normal healing process and results when the newly formed blood clot in the extraction site does not form correctly or is prematurely lost. This blood clot lays the foundation for new tissue and bone to develop over a two-month healing process.