Wisdom teeth often become impacted, meaning they do not fully emerge through the gums. This occurs because there is not enough space in the jaw for them to properly align. Impacted teeth can grow at an angle, pressing against other teeth or the jawbone, which can cause pain, swelling, and infection.

Since wisdom teeth are the last to erupt, there is often insufficient space in the jaw for them. When they try to emerge, they can push against neighboring teeth, causing crowding or shifting of other teeth, which may ruin orthodontic work or natural alignment.

Pericoronitis: When a wisdom tooth only partially erupts, a flap of gum tissue may form over it, creating a space where food and bacteria can accumulate. This can lead to an infection called pericoronitis, causing pain and swelling.

Cysts and Tumors: An impacted wisdom tooth can sometimes lead to the development of cysts (fluid-filled sacs) or, in rare cases, tumors in the jawbone. These can damage the jaw, teeth, and nerves, requiring surgical intervention.

Difficult to Clean: Wisdom teeth, especially if they are partially erupted or impacted, are difficult to clean properly due to their location at the back of the mouth. This can lead to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease.

Plaque and Tartar Build-up: Poor oral hygiene around wisdom teeth can cause plaque and tartar buildup, leading to tooth decay or periodontal (gum) disease.

Proactive Removal: Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth as a preventive measure, even if they are not currently causing problems. This is to avoid future complications, particularly in young adults, as the healing process is generally easier when done earlier in life.

Risk of Future Complications: Even if wisdom teeth are not causing immediate issues, they can create problems later in life, such as infections, gum disease, or tooth damage, which is why early removal is sometimes advised.

People who have undergone orthodontic treatments like braces to straighten their teeth may need to have their wisdom teeth removed to prevent them from undoing the work done by braces, as their eruption can shift other teeth.

Erosion of Adjacent Teeth: Wisdom teeth that press against neighboring molars can erode the enamel of these teeth, leading to decay or damage to those adjacent teeth.

In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can press against the jawbone, causing pain, pressure, or even damage to the structure of the jaw.

In some cases, the roots of upper wisdom teeth can grow close to the sinuses. When these teeth are impacted or misaligned, they can cause sinus pressure, congestion, or headaches.