Does Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop and typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Despite their common name, not everyone has them, and in some cases, they may not fully erupt. Let’s explore why this happens and what factors determine the presence of wisdom teeth.

Why Don’t Some People Have Wisdom Teeth?

There are several reasons why wisdom teeth may be absent in some individuals:

• Evolutionary changes: Over time, the human diet has become softer, reducing the need for additional molars. This has led to smaller jaws and a lack of space for wisdom teeth.
• Genetic factors: The presence or absence of wisdom teeth is often hereditary. If your parents didn’t have wisdom teeth, there’s a good chance you won’t either.
• Anatomical differences: In some cases, jaws are too narrow for wisdom teeth to develop or erupt, leading to their absence or retention.

What Happens If Wisdom Teeth Are Present?

For those who do develop wisdom teeth, several outcomes are possible:

• Full eruption: If the jaw is wide enough, wisdom teeth can grow correctly and cause no issues.
• Partial eruption: Sometimes, wisdom teeth remain partially covered by gums, increasing the risk of inflammation or infection.
• Impaction: Wisdom teeth may remain embedded in the jaw, potentially causing pain, pressure on adjacent teeth, or cysts.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Not all wisdom teeth require removal. However, a dentist may recommend extraction in the following cases:

• Wisdom teeth cause pain or gum inflammation.
• They exert pressure on neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment.
• There’s a risk of infection or damage to adjacent teeth due to improper growth.
• Cysts or other abnormalities form around impacted wisdom teeth.

Can You Live Without Wisdom Teeth?

The absence of wisdom teeth does not affect oral health or the functionality of your teeth. If they never developed or were removed, it doesn’t cause discomfort or require additional treatment.

Conclusion

The presence of wisdom teeth varies from person to person and depends on factors such as genetics, anatomy, and evolutionary changes. If you experience discomfort or have concerns about your wisdom teeth, visit Factor Smile clinic