Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that typically emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties, usually between ages 17 and 25. These teeth sit at the very back of your mouth, one in each corner. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some individuals may have fewer or none at all. Wisdom teeth are also known as third molars. Unlike other teeth, they often appear much later in life, which is why they are called “wisdom” teeth. They symbolize the age of maturity.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Our ancestors needed these molars for their diet, which consisted of rough and hard foods like roots, nuts, and uncooked meat. Extra teeth helped them chew their food better and more efficiently. Over time, human diets have evolved to include softer, cooked foods, and our jaws have become smaller due to changes in our eating habits and other evolutionary factors.
Despite these changes, wisdom teeth still grow in most people, although they are not as necessary as they once were. The evolutionary shift has made wisdom teeth somewhat redundant, but they continue to be a common part of dental development.
Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth often cause a variety of issues, primarily because they may not have enough room to grow properly. This lack of space can lead to impaction, where the teeth grow at odd angles or fail to fully emerge through the gums. Impacted teeth can cause significant pain, swelling, and even infection. They can also damage adjacent teeth by pushing against them, which can lead to further dental complications.
Crowding is another common problem associated with wisdom teeth. When these teeth try to break through, they can push other teeth out of alignment, undoing years of orthodontic work and causing bite issues. Additionally, wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. Food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped around them, leading to cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Signs You Might Need Extraction
Several signs may indicate the need for wisdom teeth extraction. Pain is one of the most common symptoms; if you experience persistent pain at the back of your mouth, it’s essential to consult a dentist. Swelling around the jaw and difficulty opening your mouth can also signal problems with your wisdom teeth. Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth may indicate an infection, which requires immediate attention.
Your dentist will likely take X-rays to get a clear view of your wisdom teeth and their position. These images help the dentist determine whether extraction is necessary. In some cases, even if you don’t experience symptoms, your dentist may recommend removal to prevent future issues.
What to Expect During Extraction
The extraction process involves several steps to ensure your comfort and safety. First, the dentist will numb the area around the wisdom teeth with a local anesthetic. In some cases, you might also receive sedation to help you relax during the procedure. The type of sedation can range from mild (such as nitrous oxide) to more profound (such as intravenous sedation), depending on your needs and the complexity of the extraction. Once the area is numb, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone.
They will then stitch the gum closed to promote healing. You will be asked to bite down on gauze to help stop the bleeding and form a blood clot, which is crucial for the healing process. The entire procedure usually takes about an hour, but it can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction.