Share:

Years after your adult teeth come in, most people grow an additional set of molars. These third molars, also called wisdom teeth, emerge behind the existing molars. They can sometimes cause issues with your bite which dentists fix by removing them. However, the guide below will dispel many common myths about wisdom teeth and their role in your mouth.

What to Know About Third Molars

1. Myth: Wisdom Teeth Are Useless

In the past, humans had a diet of tougher foods that needed more chewing to digest. A larger jaw with more molars helped people get the nutrients they needed. Today, food is cooked so it's softer, and wisdom teeth are less vital. However, they still help fill in gaps in the jaw and make chewing easier.

2. Myth: Everyone Has Wisdom Teeth

DentistWisdom teeth are common, but not everyone has them. People who do can have anywhere between one and four, and they'll usually emerge in a person’s late teens or early twenties. If you don't see your wisdom teeth by this time, that doesn't always mean you don't have them; they might be impacted, meaning they're stuck and pressing against your jawbone or other teeth.

3. Myth: You Have to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

In the past, dentists recommended routine wisdom teeth removal for everyone. However, modern research has shown that two-thirds of wisdom teeth extractions are unnecessary. Instead, the dentist should monitor your wisdom teeth coming in, and only remove them if they're impacted and causing pain, pressure, or misalignment of your other teeth.

 

If your dentist recommends removing your wisdom teeth, choose Alliance Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Keller, TX. Serving Tarrant County and North Fort Worth, their trained, licensed surgeons have years of experience and a dedication to precision. Their friendly team works with you to make sure your experience is as stress-free as possible. To schedule an appointment, call (817) 741-2200, or learn more about their wisdom teeth services online.

tracking