Wisdom teeth frequently emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Unfortunately, the jaw is usually fully developed by this point, and there isn’t enough space for them to fit correctly. A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Dental Medicine found that an estimated 50% of privately insured patients had at least one third molar extraction by age 25, making this one of the most frequently performed procedures among young adults in the United States.
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When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it can push against the neighboring molar, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease in both teeth. Partially erupted wisdom teeth are especially vulnerable to bacterial buildup, as they’re difficult to clean and can create a pocket where infection can easily hide. In some cases, a cyst or abscess can form around an impacted tooth, compromising the surrounding bone if left untreated.