Ever wondered what those mysterious molars at the back of your mouth are all about? At University Pediatric Dentistry Dental Associates, we're here to shed some light on wisdom teeth—what they are, why some people need them removed, and why others get to keep them.  

What Are Wisdom Teeth?  

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge between 17 and 25. They're called "wisdom teeth" because they come in at a more "mature" age when you're supposedly wiser (and hopefully brushing your teeth regularly!). Most people have four wisdom teeth, one for each corner of the mouth.  

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?  

Our ancestors needed these extra molars to chew tough, raw foods like roots, nuts, and meat. Over time, as our diets became softer and refined, our jaws became smaller, leaving less room for these latecomers.  

Why Do Some People Need Them Taken Out?  

Only some people have enough space in their mouth for these extra teeth. When wisdom teeth don't have room to grow properly, they can become impacted, growing sideways or only partially emerging. This can lead to:  

• Pain and Discomfort: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause significant pain and swelling.  

• Infections: Partially emerged wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections.  

• Crowding: Extra teeth can push other teeth out of alignment, causing crowding and affecting your bite.  

Why Do Some People Get to Keep Their Wisdom Teeth?  

If there's enough space in your mouth and the wisdom teeth grow properly, they can be valuable assets for chewing. Regular dental checkups help ensure that these molars aren't causing any problems and can be kept without issues.  

The Process of Wisdom Tooth Extraction  

However, if your dentist determines that your wisdom teeth must come out, don't worry! The process is straightforward and usually involves:  

5. Consultation and X-rays: Your dentist will take X-rays to see the position of your wisdom teeth.  

6. Local Anesthesia: You'll receive local anesthesia to numb the area around the teeth.  

7. Extraction: The dentist incurs the gum and removes the tooth. Sometimes, the tooth is broken into smaller pieces for easier removal.  

8. Stitches and Recovery: Stitches may be used to close the extraction site. Recovery involves resting, avoiding certain foods, and taking prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection.  

Be wise and remember to have regular checkups at UPD Dental Associates!   

Written by Michael Ferris