Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are just as useful as any other teeth if they grow in normally and have healthy gum tissue around them. However, for many people, wisdom teeth don't have the space to grow in properly.
Wisdom teeth usually develop starting at the age of 12. The ideal time to remove them is when one-half to two-thirds of the roots have formed, which is typically between ages 16 and 21. However, they can still be removed later in adulthood.