Everything You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can be problematic. Learn all about the origins of these vestigial third molars, why they become impacted, options for removal or care, and more.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars located in the far back corners of your mouth. Often referred to as third molars, these teeth typically start forming under the gums during the preteen years, but don’t finish developing until late teens or early 20s.
The Origins and Evolutionary History
Wisdom teeth are vestigial structures - evolutionary leftovers from when early hominids had larger jaws and extra molars to help chew tougher foods and plant materials.
As diets changed, jaws got smaller while wisdom teeth shrank over time. But these third molars still try to erupt despite no clear function, often getting painfully impacted or stuck.
When and Why Do Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted?
Most wisdom tooth impactions happen between ages 17-21 when the third molars attempt their final eruption just as the jaw stops growing. Without enough space at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth come in sideways or at odd angles, get trapped in gums, and only partially emerge.
Impaction causes swelling, infections, cysts, decay in nearby teeth roots if left unaddressed. The outdated structures remain prone to problems in our modern mouths.
Should You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Taken Out?
Extraction is the standard procedure suggested for problematic wisdom teeth on track to become impacted or already causing issues.
In some cases, asymptomatic wisdom teeth may be monitored if completely under the gums. Partial eruption without impaction or decay risks may also warrant a wait and see approach rather than immediate removal.
Talk to your dentist about the positioning of your third molars to determine suggested treatment timelines and options.
Can You Prevent Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
No guarantees, but good oral care may prolong the lifespan of your third molars:
Brush and floss thoroughly towards your wisdom teeth
Rinse after meals to dislodge debris
Avoid sugary/acidic foods that promote decay
Don’t smoke
Get regular dental checkups for early intervention
Inquire about protective sealants
Explore orthodontic alignment options
However, wisdom teeth often still require eventual extraction regardless due to impaction risks from evolutionary factors leading to lack of sufficient jaw space.
Wisdom Teeth Removal: What To Expect
If wisdom tooth removal is advised, the most common procedure is surgical extraction performed by an oral surgeon under local or general anesthesia. Here is an overview of what to expect:
During Surgery the oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum around the impacted wisdom tooth. Some bone or tooth may be removed to access and pull out the tooth. Stitches dissolve over time.
Recovery Timeline Swelling and soreness lasts 1-2 weeks post surgery. More extensive procedures increase recovery time. Initial healing takes 3-6 weeks. Bone generally reforms fully in 3 months.
Common Risks
Dry socket, nerve injury, and infection rarely affect a small number of cases. Significant complications are not common with standard extractions.
Recovery Self-Care Icing, over-the-counter pain medication (avoid NSAIDs), eating soft foods, proper oral hygiene, and not disturbing the surgery site support the healing process. Refrain from smoking during recovery.
Follow all post-op instructions from your surgeon for optimal healing and ask any questions before your extraction date to set expectations. Some residual swelling or numbness can persist long-term in the back of the mouth after wisdom teeth are removed.
Wisdom Tooth summary
The Bottom Line Wisdom teeth are pesky evolutionary remnants that frequently cause problems, especially from ages 17-21 onwards. Monitor for impaction risks, maintain diligent hygiene, and discuss management options with your dentist. Extraction is often inevitable, but doesn’t necessarily need to occur right away if your third molars are stable.
