Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of your mouth, two on the top and two on the bottom. They were useful to our ancestors who needed extra molars to grind down rough, raw food. Today, thanks to softer diets and better dental care, most people don’t need them—and in many cases, there simply isn’t enough room in the mouth for them to grow in properly.
Dental emergencies can strike when you least expect them—whether it’s a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken crown. Knowing how to respond quickly can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. We’re here to help you prepare for the unexpected with this quick guide to common dental emergencies and what you should do if one happens.
Receding gums, or gum recession, is a common dental issue that can affect people of all ages. It occurs when the gum tissue around your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth.