Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the back of the mouth. They usually appear in early adulthood, between the ages of 17 and 25. However, there is considerable variation in when they come in and how many people have them. In this article, we will explore the question of whether everyone has wisdom teeth.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are a set of four molars that grow at the back of the mouth. They are called “wisdom” teeth because they usually emerge when a person is in their late teens or early twenties, a time when they are considered to be more mature and wise than when they were younger.
The function of wisdom teeth is not entirely clear, but it is thought that they may have been useful in the past when our ancestors had larger jaws and needed extra teeth to help chew tough, fibrous foods. However, in modern times, wisdom teeth are often seen as unnecessary and even problematic.
Do Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?
No, not everyone has wisdom teeth. In fact, around 35% of people are born without them. This is because the evolution of human jaws has led to smaller, shorter jaws over time, which means there is less room for wisdom teeth to emerge.
In addition, some people who do have wisdom teeth never actually develop them. They can remain impacted (stuck beneath the gum line) or partially erupted (only partially visible above the gum line). This can cause pain, infection, and other problems if left untreated.
Complications from Wisdom Teeth
For those who do have wisdom teeth, complications can arise. One common problem is crowding, where the wisdom teeth push against adjacent teeth, causing misalignment and discomfort. Wisdom teeth can also become impacted, meaning they don’t fully emerge from the gum line, leading to inflammation, infection, and even cysts.
Removing Wisdom Teeth
If wisdom teeth are causing problems, they may need to be removed. This is a common procedure that involves extracting the teeth under local or general anesthesia. In most cases, recovery takes several days to a week.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, not everyone has wisdom teeth, and those who do can experience complications that require their removal. As with all dental issues, it is important to consult a dentist if you have concerns about your wisdom teeth. Your dentist can help you decide whether removing them is necessary and guide you through the process if it is.
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