Wisdom teeth are often more commonly known as the third set of molars. Usually, four wisdom teeth emerge behind the molars. They appear on the upper jaw as well as the lower jaw. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 to 21. For some people, their wisdom teeth actually never emerge so they do not need to go through the process of getting it removed.
Wisdom teeth are now also referred to as vestigial organs as their use has been diminished due to evolution.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Emerge?
It is said by anthropologists that in the prehistoric times, humans used to eat coarsely textured foods and the wisdom teeth helped them in chewing those foods. Now with evolution, our modern diet consists of softer foods with smaller pieces with the help of cutlery. This means that we no longer require wisdom teeth to chew. Moreover, because of evolution, humans nowadays have smaller jaws as compared to prehistoric humans. Which means we have less space in our jaws to accommodate the wisdom teeth. Which is why it gets very painful when the wisdom teeth start emerging.
Problems Of Wisdom Teeth
Because of lack of space in our jaws, when wisdom teeth emerge they bring with them an immense amount of pain and discomfort. Evening chewing food may become difficult. Some people may not really feel any pain but the wisdom tooth emerges very far back in your jaw. When brushing, involuntarily, you tend to neglect to brush that far back. This can cause food to remain stuck on those teeth which may, in effect, become a breeding ground for bacteria. The bacteria will cause gum diseases such as periodontitis and that bacteria will easily have access to your bloodstream. It can also cause other problems such as bad breath, redness, swelling, etc. An emerging wisdom tooth can even alter your teeth alignment, damaging surrounding teeth.
In some cases, cysts can form around the tissue of the wisdom tooth. Cysts are fluid filled sacks. They have the potential of forming tumors around the tissue. These cysts can also destroy the bones of your jaw and cause your jaw to fall out. They can even damage the surrounding teeth.
When To Seek Treatment
It is advised by doctors and dentists to have your wisdom tooth removed as soon as it starts forming. Early removal of the wisdom tooth means that it can easily come out with minimum pain. If you wait to have your wisdom tooth removed, it can become locked into the roots. Moreover having them removed after they’ve completely set in can cause a lot of complications. It may take longer to heal and the surgery process will be extensive and painful. There may be a greater risk of a major nerve getting damaged.
The majority of dentists and orthodontists agree that wisdom teeth will have to be removed. It is rare for someone to not get their wisdom teeth or to experience less pain and complications.
If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort with your wisdom teeth, take care or it now so you can enjoy your summer pain-free! Contact Ace Dental Group today to book your first appointment.
