Third molars

Third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, are the last teeth to erupt in the human mouth, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. They are the most posterior teeth in the dental arch and are usually the last to develop and erupt into the mouth.

Anatomy

The third molars are located in the back of the mouth, behind the second molars. They are the eighth and final set of teeth to erupt. Each third molar, like other molars, has a broad, flat surface for grinding food. However, due to their location in the mouth, they are often difficult to clean and are prone to tooth decay and gum disease.

Development and Eruption

The development of third molars begins around the age of 7, with the formation of tooth buds in the jaw. The teeth continue to develop over the next decade, with the crown forming first, followed by the roots. The eruption of third molars typically occurs between the ages of 17 and 25, but can vary widely among individuals. Some people may never develop third molars, a condition known as agenesis.

Complications

Due to their late eruption and often insufficient space in the mouth, third molars can cause a variety of complications. These include impaction, where the tooth is unable to fully erupt through the gum, and pericoronitis, an infection of the gum tissue surrounding the partially erupted tooth. Impacted third molars can also cause crowding of the other teeth, leading to misalignment.

Treatment

Treatment for complications associated with third molars often involves extraction. This is typically performed by an oral surgeon under local or general anesthesia. Following extraction, patients may experience swelling, pain, and difficulty opening the mouth, which usually resolve within a few days to a week.

See also

• Dental anatomy
• Tooth eruption
• Oral surgery