Are you among the fortunate few who never had to experience the agony and unease caused by wisdom teeth? Or are you presently recuperating from their extraction, questioning the purpose of their existence? Either way, brace yourself as we delve into the captivating realm of wisdom teeth, investigating the reasons behind their presence in some individuals and their absence in others. From their evolutionary origins to contemporary dental procedures, this blog post will furnish you with all the knowledge you require about these perplexing molars. So sit comfortably, keep your mouth closed, and join me in unravelling the enigma that is wisdom teeth!
What is the Purpose of Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth typically emerge during an individual’s late teens or early twenties. They derive their name from the notion that people are considered wiser at this age than during their childhood years. While some people experience no complications with their wisdom teeth and have a seamless eruption, others may encounter discomfort, crowding, and other issues. Impacted wisdom teeth refer to those that lack sufficient space to emerge or grow correctly, leading to a host of problems.
There are conflicting views on the necessity of removing wisdom teeth, especially when they are not causing any complications. Some proponents recommend their removal, while others maintain that it is unnecessary unless issues arise. Wisdom teeth that are impacted or grow abnormally can trigger pain, infections, and other concerns, making their removal advisable. However, if your wisdom teeth are healthy and causing no discomfort, you may not require extraction.
Why Do Some People Have Them and Others Don’t?
- Evolution
Our ancestors had larger jaws than we do, so they needed more molars to grind their food. Over time, our jaws have gotten smaller, but our teeth have stayed the same size. That’s why wisdom teeth sometimes get stuck (impacted) when they try to come in. - Genetics
Some people are simply born without wisdom teeth. This is usually because their genes dictate that their jaw is too small to fit them in. - Diet
Our diet significantly impacts the size of our jaws. The consumption of highly processed foods can cause our jaws to shrink, leading to reduced space for wisdom teeth. Conversely, a diet that is abundant in nutrients, such as fruits and vegetables, can foster optimal growth of our jaws, enabling sufficient room for all 32 teeth. - Health
Wisdom teeth can be problematic for some people’s overall health, so their dentist may recommend removing them even if they’re not impacted. This is usually done to prevent crowding of
Potential Health Risks of Retained Wisdom Teeth
While wisdom teeth don’t always cause problems, they can lead to a number of potential health risks if they are not removed. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause infection, pain, and swelling. They can also damage adjacent teeth and structures in the mouth. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can even cause cysts or tumours to form. If left untreated, these conditions can result in serious health problems. That’s why it’s important to see your dentist regularly and have any potential problems with your wisdom teeth checked out.
Prevention and Treatment Options
There are various measures one can take to prevent the onset of wisdom teeth or mitigate associated complications. Firstly, adopt good oral hygiene habits. These include regular brushing and flossing and scheduling routine dental check-ups and cleanings. Secondly, consume a healthy diet. Such a diet incorporates fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to maintain optimal dental health. Thirdly, avoid tobacco products as they heighten the risk of gum disease, which can trigger wisdom tooth problems. If an individual already has wisdom teeth, several treatment options are available. If the wisdom teeth aren’t causing any discomfort, leaving them unattended may be recommended by the dentist. However, if they are causing pain or other complications, extracting them may be advised. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure typically carried out by an oral surgeon.
Visit Carrum Downs Dental Group for Wisdom Teeth Removal
The reason why some people have wisdom teeth, and others don’t is because of differences in our biology. These differences can be attributed to Evolutionary Theory, which explains that it is natural for us to evolve over time and adapt to changing conditions. This makes some sense from a practical point of view, as wisdom teeth were more suitable many generations ago when diets were not as abundant or varied. Nevertheless, even though these days they are no longer necessary, some people will still have them while others won’t due to their genetic makeup. If your wisdom teeth are giving you trouble, visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Clinic. Our dentist will examine them and recommend the best way forward.
