Wisdom Teeth: It’s wise not to have them!
Wisdom teeth are your third row of molars. They are referred to as ‘wisdom’ teeth because most people get it at age 17-22 when they are also said to attain maturity. At some point or another, a good majority of individuals will have to deal with their wisdom teeth, so let’s take a look at these exciting and sometimes troublesome teeth.
Ever wondered why we have wisdom teeth if most of us choose to get them removed?
In prehistoric times, human beings required wisdom teeth to bite and chew. Our ancestors had a much stricter diet than we currently enjoy today, which might have worn down teeth faster, so they required the third row of molars. The types of food we consume have altered over time, so they are no longer necessary. Some people never grow them at all as a result of evolution over time. Some do grow them, but there are no issues. Around 85 percent of people with wisdom teeth would have to have them removed in most situations.
Wisdom teeth are very problematic now. Humans have evolved and have smaller jaws over time than our ancestors did. We do not have space in our mouths to hold extra teeth because of this. One of the issues that can arise due to wisdom teeth is that our other teeth are crowded, causing cosmetic complications, such as crooked teeth, resulting in jaw pain, swollen gums, and other mouth irritations. Since they are misaligned, they can be impacted and cause issues and pain. If pain persists, dentists recommend getting the wisdom teeth removed. They’re so far back, and thus, they can be hard to scrub, which poses a risk of tooth decay and infection.
What do you need to know about getting your wisdom teeth pulled?
If your wisdom teeth have developed, X-rays will show how they come in and if there is enough space for them. If there are potential issues with your teeth, it is best to resolve the matter as soon as possible. Several dentists recommend getting them pulled early on. Good candidates for the operation are adolescents or early adults since the teeth’ roots are also not fully developed yet, and recovery time is faster and easier. If there are potential issues with your teeth, it is best to resolve the matter as soon as possible. Several dentists recommend getting them pulled early on. Good candidates for the operation are adolescents or early adults, since the teeth’ roots are also not fully developed yet, and recovery time is faster and easier.