What are wisdom teeth, and how did they get their name? These third molars typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Since most people encounter issues with their wisdom teeth at some point, it’s helpful to understand these interesting and sometimes troublesome teeth.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth were essential for early humans to chew and eat their diet of leaves, roots, and meat. This rough diet led to quicker tooth wear, necessitating a third set of molars. As our diets have evolved, wisdom teeth have become less necessary. While some people never develop them due to evolutionary changes, others do without experiencing any issues. However, approximately 85% of those with wisdom teeth will need to have them removed.
Ongoing research continues to shed light on wisdom teeth. Scientists have discovered that these teeth can produce stem cells, suggesting a reason to keep them after removal. Additionally, researchers are exploring ways to prevent wisdom teeth from developing altogether.
How Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
Over time, human jaws have become smaller, leaving less room for additional teeth. This lack of space can cause wisdom teeth to crowd other teeth, leading to cosmetic issues like crooked teeth, as well as pain in the jaw, swollen gums, and other mouth irritations.
Wisdom teeth commonly become impacted when there isn’t enough room for them to break through the surface. This misalignment can cause significant discomfort. Additionally, because wisdom teeth are located so far back in the mouth, they are challenging to clean, making them susceptible to infection and decay. For these reasons, dentists often recommend their removal.
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Causing Problems
While issues with wisdom teeth are often discovered during routine dental visits, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist if you experience jaw pain, swollen or painful gums, or a strange taste in the back of your mouth.
At Teitler Family Dental Care, we can evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend appropriate procedures if necessary. If you have questions about your wisdom teeth or would like to schedule an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact our office.