Wisdom teeth grow at the back of the mouth and are so named as they do not emerge until your adolescent or adult years.
As a result of this late development, they can become impacted (not able to fully emerge) due to your mouth being already crowded with adult teeth. This means they can erupt at harmful angles that compromise brushing or cause gum irritation, pain, and infections. If this is the case, they may require removal.
Left in place, impacted wisdom teeth can cause serious dental decay, gum disease, dental abscesses, swelling in the jaw, a bad taste in your mouth, and intense pain.
