Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 4 minutes
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually cause more harm than good, which is why dentists recommend removing them. We get a lot of questions about these teeth: Why do we have them? Why do they need to be removed? Can wisdom teeth grow back?
Keep reading to find the answers!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Wisdom teeth cannot grow back. It is possible, however, to have more than the usual 4 wisdom teeth. These extra teeth are called supernumerary teeth. Regular dental check-ups will help monitor your child’s wisdom teeth development and address any potential issues.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of permanent teeth to develop in your mouth. Usually, they appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Though most adults only have four, some may have fewer and in rare cases, some may have more. These extra teeth are known as supernumerary teeth.
About 3.8% of people have extra teeth. Their presence can:
- Stop your other teeth from growing in
- Push your other teeth out of place
- Hurt the roots of nearby teeth
- Cause your teeth to become crowded
These molars served a purpose for our ancestors, helping them grind down plant tissue and eat tougher food. However, with advancements in diet and oral care, our jaws have become smaller, leaving less space for these extra teeth. As a result, most of us do not have enough room for them.
Why Do They Need to be Removed?
There are several reasons why your dentist or an oral surgeon may recommend removing them:
- Impaction: When they do not fully emerge or grow at an angle, they can become impacted. This can lead to:
- Jaw pain
- Damage to neighboring teeth
- Risk of tooth decay
- Infections
- Bad breath
- Crowding: If there is not enough space for them, they may push against existing teeth, causing them to shift and misalign.
- Potential complications: Wisdom teeth that don’t break through the gums can cause pain, swelling and inflamed gums.
Can Wisdom Teeth Grow Back?
No, once they are surgically removed, they can not grow back. If you have supernumerary teeth, they may erupt after the wisdom teeth have been removed because more space has been created.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Denver, CO
Wisdom teeth are a natural part of dental development. If you have concerns about your teens wisdom teeth or if they are experiencing pain related to them, consult with one of our expert dentists or our oral surgeon, Dr. Tasos Belegratis.
Regular dental check-ups and dental x-rays can help detect these third molars early. An oral surgeon can assess the risks and create a tailored treatment plan, ensuring your child’s dental health remains a priority.
