How common are impacted wisdom teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth are very common. Many people have at least one wisdom tooth that hasn't come through their gum properly.
Almost 3 out of 4 people in their 20s have an impacted wisdom tooth in their lower jaw.1 2
You're more likely to have impacted wisdom teeth in your lower jaw than in your upper jaw.
Sources for the information on this page:
- Hugoson A, Kugelberg CF. The prevalence of third molars in a Swedish population: an epidemiological study. Community Dental Health. 1988; 5: 121-138.
- Silvestri AR Jr, Singh I. The unresolved problem of the third molar: would people be better off without it. Journal of American Dental Association. 2003; 134: 450-455.
This information was last updated in Jan 30, 2008
 |
This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved. |
