Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Are wisdom teeth important in Glen Iris?

Wisdom Teeth: Understanding Their Role and When to Remove Them

Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. In many cases, there isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to come through properly. As a result, the wisdom teeth may only partially erupt or remain trapped beneath the gums, known as impaction. These are common reasons why many wisdom teeth require removal.

However, not all wisdom teeth need to be extracted. When they grow in the correct position, they can play a useful role in the mouth. Properly aligned wisdom teeth help in chewing and grinding food and provide additional structural support to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

In some cases, wisdom teeth can even replace missing or damaged molars. For example, if a molar has been lost and space is available, orthodontic treatment can sometimes be used to shift other teeth, allowing the wisdom tooth to move into that position naturally.

Before deciding to remove any wisdom tooth, it is important to have a thorough examination to determine whether it can serve a useful function, replace a missing tooth, or support jaw alignment.

If you are experiencing discomfort or would like your wisdom teeth assessed, please click here to contact us and book an appointment with Dr. Kaufman. We will examine your wisdom teeth and discuss the best approach to improve both the appearance and function of your mouth.

Wisdom Teeth Facts: Glen Iris Dental Guide to What You Need to Know

There are plenty of myths and urban legends about wisdom teeth. If you’re in Glen Iris and wondering whether you have them, what their purpose is, and if removal is required, here are the facts:

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are just like any other tooth—the third molars, located at the very back of your mouth. They usually begin to erupt around age 18, but can appear later. Most people grow all four, but some only develop two or three. The presence and position are best checked with a large dental x-ray (OPG) typically around ages 15–17.

Why Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?

Since they come in later than other teeth, wisdom teeth often don’t have enough space to emerge properly. This can lead to:

  • Tilting or becoming impacted (stuck below the gum)

  • Crowding existing teeth

  • Damage to nearby teeth

  • Trapping food and bacteria, increasing the risk of decay

Misaligned or impacted wisdom teeth can result in tooth decay, swelling, tenderness, and bad breath. Extraction is often the safest solution for these issues.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Ideally, removal should be planned early—before problems develop. Extracting wisdom teeth at a younger age is generally easier, as roots are not fully formed and bone is less dense.

If you live in Glen Iris and want to find out more about your wisdom teeth, contact our dental team for a thorough check. The first step will be an x-ray; then Dr. Kaufman can suggest the best approach for your oral health.