Oral Surgery News & Blog

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars. Most people are born with them in the backs of their mouths– two on top and two on the bottom. The wisdom teeth complete the full set of 32 adult teeth.

Some people are born without a full set of all four wisdom teeth. In fact, wisdom teeth are the most commonly missing teeth in adult mouths. Some people take this as a surprise, but never fear– if you’re missing a wisdom tooth or two, it’s no cause for concern!

Wisdom Teeth Are Molars

Since wisdom teeth are just your third set of molars, it helps to know a little about molars to understand wisdom teeth. Molars are the tough, wide teeth that we use to grind food.

Wisdom teeth, like all molars, serve a purpose. They’re meant to grind food like the rest of our molars. Issues usually arise because, for many people, the third set of molars can cause problems. Millions of people each year have wisdom teeth removal surgery in order to minimize complications caused by wisdom teeth.

Why Do People Have Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Here in the USA, the most common reason for tooth removal, in general, is impaction. It’s very common in wisdom teeth– they don’t always have room to grow into someone’s mouth. Infections, cavities, nearby tooth damage, and other factors can also cause complications with wisdom teeth.

Because of all of this, a lot of people also have their wisdom teeth removed as a precautionary measure. It’s a straightforward way to help prevent oral problems in the future.

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Called Wisdom Teeth?

Unfortunately, wisdom teeth don’t make you smarter. They get their name because of the fact that they generally don’t come in until a person is around 17 to 21 years old; they’re not exactly baby teeth.

Where Are Wisdom Teeth in the Mouth?

Your wisdom teeth grow in the very back of your mouth. Usually, people get two on the top and two on the bottom. Wisdom Teeth are your final permanent teeth, typically coming in around ages 17-24.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction is Simple

Oftentimes, the extraction to remove wisdom teeth is simple. Your Oral Surgeon will go over the procedure with you and make sure all your questions are answered. A dentist will administer sedation to numb your gums prior to loosening the tooth and pulling it free. There are different types of sedation, which you receive will depend on what is recommended depending on your personal experience.

Dr. Bobst and the Team at Boise Oral Surgery will walk you through the extraction from beginning to end, ensuring your safety and comfortability.

Oral Surgery In Boise: Wisdom Teeth Removal By Boise Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center

Dr. Jeffrey Scott Bobst is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with board certifications from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He and his staff make it a point to treat each patient as their own person with specific oral health needs. We’ll work with you to create a treatment and post-operative plan that makes the most sense for you. We don’t just work with wisdom teeth. We’re also proficient in a number of procedures, such as bone grafting, corrective jaw strategy, and oral pathology screening.

If you have questions about oral surgery or wisdom teeth removal in Boise, Boise Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center is happy to answer any questions. Reach out to us today for more information about wisdom teeth removal.