Verstandkiezen

Verstandkiezen, also known as wisdom teeth, are the last set of molars to erupt in the mouth, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. These third molars are located at the very back of the jaw, one in each quadrant. In ancient times, their eruption coincided with the age of maturity, hence the name "wisdom teeth." However, in modern humans, the jaw size has often reduced, leading to insufficient space for these teeth to emerge properly.

This lack of space can cause a variety of problems. Wisdom teeth may become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gum or bone and cannot erupt fully. This can lead to pain, swelling, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can form cysts or tumors. Even when wisdom teeth do erupt, their position at the back of the mouth can make them difficult to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Consequently, many individuals require the extraction of one or more wisdom teeth to prevent or alleviate these issues. Dental professionals assess the position and potential for problems with wisdom teeth through clinical examination and X-rays.