The wisdom teeth typically begin to emerge in a person’s late teens or early twenties, and many people find that these third molars cause a lot of trouble when they come in. Since the jawbones of modern humans are smaller than they used to be, the emerging wisdom teeth can cause a variety of oral health problems. Here’s a quick look at why humans have wisdom teeth and how they can be safely removed.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Before cooking was invented, people had to consume a coarse diet of raw plant and animal matter, and the wisdom teeth played a crucial part in grinding this tough fare into pulps that could be easily swallowed and digested. However, the development of many food preparation practices has made food much easier to chew, and people today often do not have jawbones big enough to accommodate their large wisdom teeth. Interestingly, some research suggests that eating a tougher diet during childhood may make a person more likely to be able to comfortably keep their third molars.
What Kind of Problems Can the Wisdom Teeth Cause?
If the mouth does not have enough room to accommodate the wisdom teeth, the patient may experience issues like:
- Chronic pain due to the pressure the wisdom teeth place on the other molars.
- Dental misalignments due to the jawbone not having enough room to fit all its teeth.
- Oral infections due to hygiene difficulties or the wisdom teeth sheltering harmful bacteria.
- Teeth grinding.
- Head, neck, back, and jaw pain.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
The process of removing wisdom teeth always begins with the patient receiving a suitable anesthetic to render the entire procedure painless. Then, their oral health professional will use a special device called an elevator to lift the tooth from its socket before gently working it loose with forceps. The patient will receive prescriptions for any necessary pain medication or antibiotics as well as detailed aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery.
Don’t let your wisdom teeth wreck your oral health and cause you constant misery. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to achieve a strong and comfortable smile.
About the Author
Dr. Ray Bollin earned his dental degree at the University of Missouri at Kansas City where he was a member of the Beta Beta Beta biological honor society. He is proud to be a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and a member of the American Dental Association. His office in Springdale offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as wisdom tooth extractions. If your wisdom teeth are giving you trouble, contact his office online or dial (479) 419-9991.