Wisdom Teeth: Eruption, Pain, and Removal Explained
Summary
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually erupt between ages 17 and 25 but can cause pain, swelling, and infection when there is not enough space for them to come in properly. Dentists may monitor them if they are not causing problems, but extraction is recommended for repeated infections, severe pain, decay, cysts, or abscesses.
Key Points
- Wisdom teeth usually erupt between ages 17 and 25, but some people may not get all four teeth or may get them later in life.
- Pain and swelling often happen when wisdom teeth are impacted or partially erupted, allowing food and bacteria to cause infection.
- Dentists do not always remove wisdom teeth immediately; extraction is usually advised only when there are repeated infections, severe pain, decay, cysts, or abscesses.
- Recovery after extraction typically takes a few days to two weeks, with common risks including dry socket, infection, and nerve irritation.
