Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 4 minutes
Wisdom teeth, officially called third molars, have puzzled people for generations.
Do we really need them? Why do they cause problems? Why do we remove them? If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, you’re in the right place!
This blog will teach you about these mysterious teeth. Whether you’re a curious teen, a concerned parent, or simply looking for info about your oral health, this blog has the answers!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Wisdom teeth are remnants from our ancestors, who needed extra molars to chew a diet of tough, raw foods. With modern diets and smaller jaws, these teeth often become problematic and are frequently removed.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to develop in your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth – two on top and two on bottom – but some people may have fewer or none at all.
Unlike your other adult teeth that typically erupt between ages 6 and 12, third molars usually make their grand entrance in your late teens or early twenties.
The Purpose of Wisdom Teeth
Though we don’t really use these molars, our ancestors did. Their diets consisted mainly of tough food, like roots, nuts, and raw meat. Third molars provided extra chewing power to break down these foods. As our diets shifted to include softer foods, and we began using utensils, the need for these extra teeth diminished.
While you can’t prevent wisdom teeth from developing, regular dental checkups are key to early detection of potential problems. Your dentist or oral surgeon can monitor the development of wisdom teeth through X-rays and recommend removal if necessary.
Why Do We Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Today, third molars are removed for several reasons:
- Lack of space: Our jaws are smaller than those of our ancestors, leaving limited space for wisdom teeth to erupt properly.
- Impacted teeth: When there isn’t enough room, third molars can become trapped (impacted) under the gums or bone. This can lead to pain, infection, and even damage to nearby teeth.
- Oral health issues: Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, making them prone to tooth decay and gum disease.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need To Be Removed?
No, not always. If your third molars erupt fully, are aligned properly, and you can keep them clean, they might not cause any issues. Your dentist or oral surgeon will assess your oral health, genetic factors, and the likelihood of future problems to help you make an informed decision.
Tooth Removal Process
Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure. An oral surgeon will numb the area around the tooth, remove the tooth, and stitch the gum tissues closed. Depending on the complexity of the case, you might need to take a few days off from school or work to recover.
Recovery Tips
Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery. Your surgeon will give you post-operative instructions to follow, but here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Follow instructions: Carefully follow your oral surgeon’s post-operative instructions.
- Manage discomfort: Use ice packs to reduce swelling and over-the-counter medication as directed by your surgeon.
- Maintain oral hygiene: Gently brush your teeth and rinse with saltwater, avoiding the extraction site.
- Watch for complications: If you experience severe pain, bleeding that won’t stop, or signs of infection, contact your oral surgeon immediately.
- Soft foods: During the first few days, stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes.
Denver Youth Dentistry – Your Partners in Oral Health
We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of dental care for your teen. We offer a wide range of comprehensive dental services for children and teenagers. From routine cleanings and check-ups to wisdom teeth removal, we have your child’s oral health covered.
To book an appointment at any one of our locations, call (303) 953-8801 or complete the online inquiry form.
FAQ about Wisdom Teeth
What triggers wisdom teeth to grow?
The growth of wisdom teeth is triggered during late adolescence or early adulthood when the body’s growth patterns and hormone levels change. This process involves the movement of the teeth from their developmental stage within the jawbone to their eventual eruption through the gums.
What is the oldest age you can get wisdom teeth?
Some individuals experience the growth of wisdom teeth into their 30s, but this is very rare.
What happens if your wisdom teeth never come in?
If your wisdom teeth never come in, it may simply mean that you do not have them. Others may have wisdom teeth that remain impacted, staying beneath the gumline and jawbone. In such cases, they may not cause any issues and might be discovered only through X-rays.
