What are Wisdom Teeth & How are they Removed?

Wisdom teeth removal is something that dentists have been suggesting because they create traffic inside the mouth, causing problems in the development of other teeth. Removing wisdom teeth is not painful when done with a proper injection of anesthesia.

Wisdom tooth extraction might not be required for everyone, as some people do not have any wisdom teeth throughout their life.

 Average Age For Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth also known as third molars are usually used for chewing uncooked or hard-to-chew meat because it requires powerful chewing muscles. A wisdom tooth is one of the three molars per quadrant of the human teeth structure. Wisdom teeth generally break out between the ages of 17 and 25. Most adults grow four wisdom teeth, one in each of the four quadrants, but the number can increase to a few more, with the extra ones referred to as supernumerary teeth. Wisdom teeth affect the growth of other teeth by getting struck. They are usually extracted before or just after they appear.

(Image Courtesy: Mother Nature Network)

 Does Everyone Get Wisdom Teeth?

Almost about 20-25% of the human population is born with 1-3 wisdom teeth, and 35% is born without any wisdom teeth. Scientists have devised a few reasons because of which not everyone is born with wisdom teeth.

#1. Genetics:

Studies suggest that a genetic mutation which took place thousands of years ago have been causing some people to be born with no wisdom teeth.

#2. Environment:

Culture too plays an important role in the development of wisdom teeth in some. Certain ethnic groups are known for falling low on wisdom teeth development, while others stick to high percentages. External environmental factors do affect the dental development.

 Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?

Our ancestors greatly benefitted from the wisdom teeth as it helped in chewing the uncooked, raw and hard meat or other food items. With the evolution of human kind, humans now have better means of chewing and digesting the food and therefore, the need of wisdom teeth has been vanishing. The number of teeth has fallen from 32 to 28 because the absence of wisdom teeth does not impact the process of either chewing or digestion. In fact, nowadays, dentists recommend wisdom teeth extraction to prevent further dental issues.

How Many Wisdom Teeth Can You Have?

On an average, we are born with either 1-3 wisdom teeth or with no wisdom teeth at all. Because the third molars have no important function to perform inside the mouth, its absence doesn’t concern anymore.

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Oldest Age For Wisdom Teeth

Normally, your wisdom teeth should erupt naturally around the age bracket of 17-22 years, but some slow molars can break out from your jaw even in the late 20’s. Because the age at which wisdom teeth cannot be fixed, therefore, its occurrence can take place at any time, but the chances of it appearing after you pass your 20’s are comparatively very less.

Why Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Important?

Wisdom teeth can cause problems, which may result in pains and swellings. Other prominent reasons to take them out include:

#1. Causes Damage To Other Teeth

#2. Damages The Jaw

#3. Sinus Issues

#4. Inflammation Of Gums

#5. Cavities

#6. Alignment

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#7. Wisdom Tooth Pain Relief

Ideal Diet

Removal of wisdom teeth generally is not a painful process, but in case you suffer any of it after losing your wisdom teeth, then stick to a diet consisting of: 

#1. Pudding

#2. Gelato

#3. Smoothies

#4. Mashed potatoes

#5. Scrambled Eggs

#6. Hummus

#7. Soup

#8. Yogurt

#9. Milkshakes

#10. Apple Sauce

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Did you get your wisdom teeth removed? Let us know in the comment section below.

(Featured Image Courtesy: Dental Group)