The development of wisdom teeth can be hard to wrap your head around. Most of us have a third set of molars that move in during early adulthood. However, it’s not uncommon for people to go their entire lives without the hassle of wisdom teeth emerging. For some people, wisdom teeth removal is unnecessary, and their third set of molars does not affect their oral health. Approximately a third of the human population is born without any at all. So, if they don’t serve us any purpose and eventually have to come out, why do we still grow them? Learn more about this topic with your guide to wisdom teeth and why we have them.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Why do our bodies produce wisdom teeth if our jaws have adapted to be smaller over time? Anthropologists believe our ancestors needed this third set of molars to accommodate for their diet. Early humans ate tough, coarse, and uncooked foods and did not have utensils to break them down. As a result, they also had larger jaws that allowed a third set of molars to erupt into the mouth naturally.
Our modern diet consists of softer foods, and nowadays, we have utensils that can make tougher options easier to digest. As such, we as humans have gradually evolved beyond needing our wisdom teeth.
What Are Some Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
While some people don’t encounter issues, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons estimates that around 85 percent of wisdom teeth will eventually need to be removed. Having them extracted when you are a young adult can prevent future problems from occurring and ensure a safer and faster healing process. Undergoing oral surgery after the age of 35 increases your risk for complications, more complex surgeries, and slower healing times. The optimal time to get your wisdom teeth removed is when the roots are not yet fully formed, typically when you’re about 15 to 18.
Often when wisdom teeth form, they become impacted or blocked by the lack of space. If your wisdom teeth only partially erupt, food and other debris can become trapped in the surrounding gum tissue and lead to microbial growth, infection, or displacement of permanent teeth.
On rare occasions, they can even form cysts in the soft tissue around the impacted tooth which can lead to weakening of the bone that keeps the back teeth in place.
When to Call Your Dentist About Wisdom Teeth
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have a wisdom tooth infection:
- Pain or Sensitivity
- Tender or Swollen Gums
- Red or Bleeding Gums
- White Fluid Around Your Teeth
- Bad Breath or Taste in Your Mouth That Persists After Brushing/Chewing Gum
- Jaw Pain, Swelling, or Stiffness
- Difficulty Breathing, Opening Your Mouth, or Speaking
So while wisdom teeth were essential in caveman times, these days, it’s better for us modern people to get them removed just in case. Tackling these issues sooner rather than later can do wonders for preserving your oral health.
About the Practice
Celebration Family Dental of Carrollton offers state-of-the-art technology operated by an experienced and personable team devoted to your comfort and oral health. Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya continually further his studies and stay up-to-date with the most recent advances in dentistry so that your smile is guaranteed to be in good hands. If you or your child are looking to get your wisdom teeth removed, contact Celebration Family Dental of Carrollton through their website or by phone at (469) 892-6647.