When wisdom teeth are prevented from erupting into the mouth properly, they are referred to as being impacted which is not uncommon among young adults. Usually X-rays are needed to determine if the teeth are impacted or will not grow in properly. Impacted teeth may cause problems, such as infection, decay of adjacent teeth, gum disease or formation of a cyst. Removal of impacted wisdom teeth helps to prevent these potential problems. In some situations, erupted wisdom teeth may also need to be removed as they may be non-functional, interfering with the bite, badly decayed, involved with or at risk for periodontal disease, or interfering with restoration of an adjacent tooth. Removal of wisdom teeth very often requires a surgical procedure with the help of sedation. Post-operative swelling and discomfort is quite normal and common.