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Did you know that the issues you may face with your third molars could be linked to human evolutionary development? As our jaws have become smaller over time, there's often not enough room for all of our teeth. This is especially true when it comes to our wisdom teeth, which are the last permanent teeth to develop in the oral cavity. Research suggests that this decrease in jaw size can be attributed to a change in diet and an increase in brain size. While we may have more diverse food options than our prehistoric ancestors, smaller jaws sometimes mean less space for our teeth.
As the final teeth to come into place, wisdom teeth can be prone to problems. In some cases, they may not have enough room to erupt and become impacted, exhibit incomplete or abnormal development, or cause issues for the adjacent teeth and surrounding tissues. According to statistics, approximately 85% of people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed.
Most individuals develop four wisdom teeth. However, there are cases where individuals do not develop any wisdom teeth at all, develop fewer than four, or even rare situations where extra ones emerge. Unless they are impacted, the third molars generally erupt and emerge through the gums at the back of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 21 years. Since this period coincides with the transition from teen years into adulthood, a time of life known as the "Age of Wisdom," these teeth are commonly referred to as the "wisdom teeth."
A wisdom tooth is considered impacted when it remains submerged under gum tissue or bone and unable to erupt into position. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions can be classified in a few different ways. Soft tissue impactions occur when a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue. If a wisdom tooth remains completely or partially obstructed by bone, it's known as a bony impaction.
At the office of Black Mountain Family Dentistry, we closely monitor our patients' dental health at every checkup visit. Our examination includes checking the development, location, and health of the wisdom teeth, the adjacent teeth, and the surrounding tissues. If your wisdom teeth have room to erupt into place, align correctly, do not have large cavities, and not cause damage to the adjacent teeth or tissues, extractions may not be required. If we recommend wisdom teeth extractions, we may perform the procedure in our office or make a referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. It all depends on the unique requirements of each case.
Regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health, especially when it comes to your wisdom teeth. By keeping up with these appointments, you can ensure that any potential issues with your third molars are identified and addressed in a timely manner. Remember, the key to a healthy smile is prevention and early detection.
In conclusion, while human evolutionary development may have led to smaller jaws and potential issues with our wisdom teeth, regular dental checkups can help you navigate these challenges. By staying informed about the health of your third molars and seeking professional guidance when needed, you'll be well on your way to a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Don't let wisdom teeth worries stand in the way of your oral health. Contact us at the office of Black Mountain Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthy, confident smile.
Schedule your appointment online or give us a call to get started today.
