Wisdom teeth: why they cause problems and when it's best to remove them
May 12, 2025
Wisdom tooth discomfort is one of the most common reasons for a consultation. It appears as cyclical pain that can last for years: it disappears for a while and then comes back. Even if the pain eases, it's worth having the area checked.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are four —two upper and two lower— and they’re called third molars because they occupy the last place in the arch. They begin to form around the age of nine and usually erupt after adolescence, although in many people they never come through. The fact that they don’t appear doesn’t mean they aren’t there: they can stay inside the bone.
Why they cause problems
The problem arises when there isn’t enough space for them to grow. An impaction then occurs: the tooth pushes against the rest of the teeth and gets trapped in a bad position. That constant pressure is what triggers the discomfort and opens the door to other complications.
What a lack of space can cause
A badly positioned wisdom tooth isn’t just a matter of pain. It can cause:
- Wear on the second molar. The pressure on the neighbouring tooth wears it down and can damage it irreversibly.
- Decay and infections. Sitting in a position that’s hard to clean, it builds up plaque and becomes infected easily.
- Headaches and referred pain. The tension in the area can show up as a headache or earache.
- Dental crowding. The constant pushing disrupts the rest of the teeth and alters the bite.
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Do wisdom teeth always have to be removed?
No. Only when they cause problems or are likely to. If they've come through properly and can be cleaned, there's no need to touch them.
At what age should they be checked?
It's important to take children and teenagers to the dentist regularly to monitor their development and anticipate problems before they appear.