Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back of the mouth. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, but it is not uncommon for them to appear later in life. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may experience pain, discomfort, or even infection if they do not have enough room to grow properly. This raises the question: can wisdom teeth still grow at the age of 28?
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Before we dive into whether wisdom teeth can grow at the age of 28, let’s first understand what they are. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop in the back of the mouth. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. However, some people may not have any wisdom teeth at all.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
The purpose of wisdom teeth is not entirely clear. Some experts believe that they were once necessary for our ancestors who had larger jaws and needed extra molars to grind tough foods like roots, nuts, and meats. Others believe that wisdom teeth could have served as replacements for other molars that were lost due to disease or injury.
Can Wisdom Teeth Grow at the Age of 28?
Yes, it is possible for wisdom teeth to grow at the age of 28, although it is less common. In fact, some people may not see their wisdom teeth emerge until they are in their 30s or 40s. However, just because they can grow at this age doesn’t mean that they will.
Factors That Affect Wisdom Teeth Growth: Several factors can affect the growth of wisdom teeth, including:
Genetics:
The size and shape of your jaw are determined by genetics. If you have a small jaw, there may not be enough room for your wisdom teeth to emerge, causing them to become impacted.
Age:
As we age, our teeth and jawbone become more rigid, making it harder for wisdom teeth to emerge.
Oral Hygiene:
Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and tooth decay, which can affect the growth of wisdom teeth.
Gender:
Women tend to have smaller jaws than men, which can make it more difficult for their wisdom teeth to emerge.
Do You Need to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. If your wisdom teeth grow in straight and have enough room to come through without causing any issues, you may be able to keep them. However, if your wisdom teeth are impacted, growing in at an angle, or causing crowding or discomfort, your dentist may recommend that you have them removed.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, wisdom teeth can still grow at the age of 28, although it is less common. Several factors can affect the growth of wisdom teeth, including genetics, age, oral hygiene, and gender. While not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, if they are causing issues, your dentist may recommend extraction. If you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort in your mouth, schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your options.
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