How Do Wisdom Teeth Work?

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Humans have three sets of molars. The last set that that form are often referred to as wisdom teeth. Most people have four wisdom teeth. In rare cases, some people have extra wisdom teeth. It is also possible to lack one or more wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth helped our ancestors eat hard to chew foods, but today they have no use. Most people have their wisdom teeth removed. In fact, wisdom teeth are the most commonly removed teeth because they can cause shifts or damage to the rest of the mouth.

Why Are They Called Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth get their name because they are usually the last teeth that develop. For most people they do not come in until the person is a teenager or in their twenties. Of course, some people may get them sooner or later, but this is the most common age group.

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth are removed because our mouths are usually too small to allow room for them. Our mouths are smaller than our ancestors’ mouths, due to changed diets and evolving. Wisdom teeth can become impacted, unable to come in properly, or they can cause issues with other teeth. Wisdom teeth are far back in the mouth, so they are hard to keep clean. We recommend having an x-ray to check the location of your wisdom teeth, because a lack of space for the teeth can lead to tooth misalignment.

Will I Need to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Not everyone will need to have their wisdom teeth removed. However, we do recommend it as wisdom teeth can cause issues even when they come in properly causing a lot of problems. Wisdom teeth removal is not bad, and we will do everything we can do to make the procedure quick and easy.

For more information on wisdom teeth, removal, and scheduling an appointment, contact Fairfield Dental Arts today!