Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, despite their name, have nothing to do with wisdom. They are called “wisdom teeth” because they typically emerge later in life—often during a person’s late teens or early twenties. Also known as third molars, wisdom teeth don’t always need to be removed. If they are healthy, have enough space to grow in, and are accessible for cleaning, extraction may not be necessary.

However, there are situations where removal is the best option. For example, if the wisdom teeth grow in at odd angles, they can cause discomfort or misalignment. Impacted wisdom teeth—those trapped beneath the gums—can lead to infections or damage to nearby teeth. In other cases, wisdom teeth may only partially emerge, making them difficult to clean and more prone to decay or gum disease. Even if your dentist advises keeping them, maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential to avoid future issues.

So, how can you tell if your wisdom teeth might be causing problems? Common symptoms include pain, repeated infections behind your lower back teeth, tooth decay, and damage to adjacent teeth. If you or your child are experiencing any of these signs and live in the Staten Island, New York area, contact Dr. Matthew Scaffa at Dental Art Concepts PLLC.

Call (718) 569-8227 to schedule an exam and determine the best course of treatment. Every patient is different, and we’re dedicated to creating a personalized solution for your dental health.