90% of People Have at Least One Impacted Wisdom Tooth

Wisdom teeth extraction isn't needed if they grow in completely and are painless, cavity-free, and in a clean environment with healthy gum tissue. However, they require regular cleaning, periodic X-rays, and annual check-ups to monitor any changes they develop.

An impacted wisdom tooth can be infected and cause damage to other teeth. Because it's in a position that’s difficult to clean, it can invite bacteria that lead to gum disease. Oral bacteria can also travel through your bloodstream and lead to infections and illnesses that affect your heart, kidneys and other organs. In some cases, a cyst or tumor can form around the base of the impacted tooth, which can lead to more serious problems as it hollows out the jaw and damages surrounding nerves, teeth and other parts of your mouth and face.