Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically develop when someone is between 17 and 20 years old. Unfortunately, this growth can often lead to discomfort and more severe health issues, which is why many people eventually require wisdom teeth extraction. Learn more about these teeth and why they may need to be removed below.

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?

People don’t need their wisdom teeth to chew or keep their mouths healthy. They’re actually vestigial structures, which means they’re carried over from human ancestors, even though people no longer need them. Humans used these teeth to grind down fibrous plants and fully absorb the cellulose in their cells, but diets have since changed. Human jaws have also become smaller, which is why wisdom teeth can cause problems.

When Might They Need to Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth extraction may be necessary for several reasons. If they grow in the wrong position and make it difficult to floss around them properly, food can become trapped, leading to cavities.

Additionally, some people’s wisdom teeth never come through properly. If the wisdom teeth only partially develop, it can lead to infection. Alternatively, when they don’t come through at all, they could cause the other teeth in your mouth to move, making them crowded or crooked. Finally, wisdom teeth can become impacted and a cyst can form on or near the affected tooth, damaging the roots of teeth or destroying some of the jaw bone.

Talk to your dentist right away if you’re experiencing pain in your wisdom teeth or jaw. Getting regular checkups from childhood into early adulthood will also help dentists monitor your wisdom teeth and determine if surgery is necessary before you develop any problems or pain. They'll likely schedule teeth extraction if they find an infection, cysts, tumors, damage to neighboring teeth, gum disease, or tooth decay.

If you think you need wisdom teeth extraction, call the dentists at BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK. Drs. Murdoch, Cady, Hobson, and Penfield each have unique specialties ranging from cosmetic dentistry to surgery, and they aim to make each trip to the dentist as stress-free as possible. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (907) 486-3257 to schedule an appointment.