Wisdom teeth are the permanent third molars. Most people have four wisdom teeth − two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. Wisdom teeth are named as such because they usually erupt between the ages of 16 and 21 which is a period where an individual gains maturity and wisdom.
An impacted wisdom tooth is a third molar that fails to fully erupt into the oral cavity due to inadequate space or obstruction from surrounding structures. These structures may include neighbouring teeth, overlying bone or excess gingiva.
X-ray depicting four impacted wisdom teeth
