These are so-called because they come through when you have supposedly acquired wisdom (18-25 years of age). We have four wisdom teeth, but it is a very common tooth to be missing from the dental arch and sometimes they never make a break for freedom.

Problems only arise when there is insufficient room for the tooth to come through or the tooth loses its ability to “erupt” into the mouth.

Wisdom teeth become impacted when they grow at the wrong angle and get stuck behind the molar tooth in front.

Infection can occur when just part of the tooth erupts because this opens up a passage for bacteria to reach the tooth under the surface, causing the gum to be sore around the tooth. If the infection spreads around the body, antibiotics would be indicated. Your dentist or oral health advisor can teach you techniques to keep your wisdom teeth plaque free and problem free.

Generally, it is only recommended to remove lower wisdom teeth if there have been several episodes of infection as the nerve inside the lower jaw is close to the root of wisdom teeth and occasionally the procedure may damage this nerve leading to a numb lip and/or tongue.

The upper wisdom teeth are usually much easier to remove. Extractions can be done at the practice under local anaesthetic but if a general anaesthetic is required, you can be referred to a hospital (private or NHS). Private medical insurance covers the removal of wisdom teeth in hospital. In all cases, your dentist must assess the tooth/teeth and discuss the options with you. This may involve taking an x-ray.

See the website for a patient information sheet if you have had teeth removed.