“Wisdom tooth” is the popular name for the third molar, one of the three molar teeth found in each of the four quadrants of the human dentition.
This designation comes from the fact that they generally appear last, between the ages of 12 and 24. Occupying the last and therefore innermost position in the dental arch, wisdom teeth are also called eighth teeth. There can also be more than four or less, respectively, in cases of hyperdontia or hypodontia.
It often happens that a third molar remains included or half-enclosed and does not pop out, remaining completely or partially covered by the gingiva.
Acute inflammation (pericoronitis) of the wisdom tooth is one of the most frequent situations associated with painful symptomatology that can occur in the oral cavity.
