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Get help deciding whether to remove these teeth

	Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain and infections, but you can also remain symptom and problem-free with impacted wisdom teeth. ConsumerReportsHealth.org can help you identify the symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today to help you decide whether removing impacted wisdom teeth is best for you or your child.

If you or someone you know is diagnosed with impacted wisdom teeth, Consumer Reports Health can help with the best research and expert evidence and advice about treatment options.

Key points for people with impacted wisdom teeth

• Wisdom teeth are normal adult teeth. They’re the last teeth to appear in your mouth.
• Wisdom teeth can be impacted but still not bother you. If your wisdom teeth aren't causing problems, you may not need to have them taken out.
• Unless your wisdom teeth are causing you trouble, you probably do not need to have them taken out.
• But if they are causing pain, are damaging other teeth or your jawbone, or keep causing infections, you need to have them removed.

Impacted wisdom teeth are very common. Many people have at least one wisdom tooth that hasn't come through their gum properly. This usually happens when there's not enough room for them or when they're growing in the wrong direction. For some people, all four wisdom teeth become impacted.

If you do need to have one or more of your wisdom teeth removed, the younger you are the better. This is because you might recover faster from the operation when you are younger. We encourage you to read our entire condition report and to consult with your dentist to learn more about impacted wisdom teeth. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, you’ll have access to our expert research and recommendations, and you’ll be more confident and knowledgeable about which treatments are best for you.