You’re a young adult and all your friends are talking about their recent wisdom teeth extractions. Now, it’s your turn to step up to the plate! You’re praying you don’t have to get yours taken out, though approximately 85 percent of Americans will need to have theirs extracted.
In this article, you’ll learn more about wisdom teeth, their purpose, and what could happen if you don’t remove them at the proper time.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars in the back of the mouth and are the last set of adult teeth to grow in. Normally, they “erupt,” or break through the gums and into the mouth, between the ages of 17 and 25. Not everyone, however, has wisdom teeth that come in.
What is Their Purpose?
In ancient times, before the advent of utensils and soft foods, the third molars in the back of humans’ mouths were needed to handle a diet that consisted of raw plants, tough meat, and hard nuts. Now, they are what scientists call “vestigial organs,” meaning they serve no purpose in modern life and are not needed.
As the human body evolved, the jawbone became smaller, which is why many people don’t have enough room in their mouths for wisdom teeth to grow in.
What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause?
Common issues that arise from wisdom teeth erupting include:
- Overcrowding
- Impaction (pushes into the gums or another tooth)
- Decay and infection
- Pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Bad breath
- Formation of cysts
Is it Necessary to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?
For some people, their mouths can accommodate the extra teeth, eliminating many problems.
Most people’s jaws, however, cannot fit any more teeth, and their third molars only partially erupt from the gums, or they come in wrong, leading to the aforementioned problems.
Even if your wisdom teeth do come in properly and are aligned with your other teeth, issues could come up down the road, like increased chances of decay because they are so far back in your mouth and thus difficult to clean.
Ultimately, your dentist can perform an examination to see if future issues are likely with your wisdom teeth.
What If My Wisdom Teeth Aren’t Creating Complications?
For a lucky few, their wisdom teeth never erupt, or if they do, they come in fully upright and in alignment with their other teeth. They cause no pain or complications. If this is you, there’s a strong chance you won’t need to extract them.
But again, it’s imperative that you consult your dentist and let them determine what the best course of action would be.
It is important to discuss your wisdom teeth with your dentist to see if removal is necessary and, if so, to have them extracted in a timely manner.
About the Author
Need an expert to discuss the possible removal of your wisdom teeth? Dr. Michael Rose of Rose Cosmetic & Family Dentistry is a second-generation dentist and a member of both the American Dental Association and the Nevada Dental Association. Our team can handle all your questions regarding wisdom tooth extraction and can also offer other services ranging from routine checkups and cleanings to cosmetic and sedation dentistry. Visit us online today to make an appointment, or call our Las Vegas office at (702) 459-8998.