Wisdom teeth refer to the molars found at the very back of the mouth; two in the upper arch, and two in the lower. Sometimes called third molars, most patients these days end up having their wisdom teeth removed due to the complications they can cause, especially if they become impacted. But does everyone even have these teeth, or is it possible to be born without them? Believe it or not, a lucky few don’t have to worry about these teeth or the potentially painful issues they can trigger! Continue reading to learn more.
Does Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?
According to the Dental Research Journal, it’s estimated that anywhere from 5 to 37 percent of people are missing one or more of their wisdom teeth. The reason for this is still unknown, but many researchers believe that it could involve genetics. Other factors that may influence the lack of wisdom teeth include environment, diet, and chewing function.
In any case, it isn’t a problem at all, since these teeth normally cause more trouble than they’re worth! Our mouths have evolved to normally not have enough space for these third molars, but they did assist our ancient ancestors with their coarser, rough diets.
Keep in mind that just because you cannot see your wisdom teeth, that doesn’t mean they don’t exist. They may be impacted, which means they didn’t erupt at a proper angle – and if you’re dealing with pain at the back of your mouth, this could be why. A dental X-ray can reveal the presence of the wisdom teeth, as well as let you and your dentist know if there are any issues affecting them that warrant extraction.
How Do I Know If My Wisdom Teeth Are Causing Issues?
Tooth pain felt at the back of the mouth is going to be the most obvious sign that there’s an issue with your wisdom teeth. This pain can start off as mild and intermittent, but it can gradually worsen to the point where chewing or speaking is difficult. You might also experience swelling and redness in the gums, and your nearby teeth might even begin shifting if the wisdom teeth begin erupting toward them. Oral infections and cavities are also a possibility with these teeth since they’re incredibly difficult to brush due to their location in the mouth. Don’t ignore these issues; they won’t resolve on their own and can extend beyond the wisdom teeth!
Some people are fortunate enough to be without wisdom teeth, meaning they can dodge all of the complications that can result from these teeth. However, if you have them, rest assured; speaking with your dentist can ensure that if they have the potential to cause problems, they can be helped.
About the Practice
The talented team at Mark W. Jacob, DDS, PC has served the needs of patients and families in the Deerfield, IL community for several years, offering a wide variety of services including wisdom teeth removal. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’d like to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can get in touch with the practice online or by phone for more information. Telephone: (847) 564-2180.