The Problem
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​Damage to root of second molar
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​Decay on both the distal of the second molar and the decay-prone third molar



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A third molar preventing the eruption of the second molar
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A cyst related to an impacted third molar
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​"Pocketing" around the crown of the third molar
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​A distally-inclined, un-erupted third molar with no chance of meaningful function
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​Bone destruction on the distal of the second molar, caused by bacteria under the third molar
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​Risk of jaw fracture due to substantial bone loss around third molar
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​Inadequate space to accommodate healthy third molars
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​An extruded unopposed third molar collecting bacteria that cause decay and bad breath
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Impacted third molar causing bone destruction
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Reasons for Removing Third Molars
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  • Chronic or recurring gum infections
  • Pain caused by wisdom teeth
  • A high susceptibility to decay
  • Biting against the gum tissue of partially erupted wisdom teeth
  • Damage to adjacent teeth
  • Crowding of neighboring teeth
  • Inadequate space for eruption and meaningful function
  • Difficulty with accessibility for cleaning
  • Cyst formation or other damage to bone
  • Bad breath associated with wisdom teeth
  • Interference with normal bite or jaw movements
  • Cardiovascular damage from chronic inflammation
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Q: What is the problem with inaccessible wisdom teeth?
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A. Decay, periodontal disease, and abscess formation result from the inability to access wisdom teeth for cleaning. Because third molars are difficult (or impossible) to reach, bacteria flourish and cause inflammation. The immune system's battle against the influx of bacteria results in bone loss and, consequently, more room for bacterial growth. 
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Q: What are the advantages of "timely treatment?"
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A. Wisdom teeth usually erupt in the late teens or early twenties. Here are some reasons for removing them before pain, swelling, infection and other problems begin:

1. The appointment can be scheduled at a convenient time that doesn't interfere with school or work.

2. Early removal generally results in faster and easier recovery.

3. As people age, the incidence of complications may increase, especially when there are other medical issues. 
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4. Most oral surgeons feel that the ideal time for removal exists when between 1/2 and 2/3 of the root has developed. Removal is less complicated and the roots will not be close to a nerve trunk of near the sinuses. 


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Q: What is the connection between cardiovascular and heart disease with chronic infection?
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A. Abundant research has shown a direct link between long-term inflammation with increased accumulation of cholesterol plaque deposits in blood vessels. 


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Q: Do All Wisdom teeth need to be removed?
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A. No. Wisdom teeth that are not causing problems, and are not likely to be a future problem, can and should be retained. Nevertheless, most people are well-served having their third molars removed. 



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Information on this page is provided by O'Neil Practice Resources