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Why Are They Called Wisdom Teeth?

The name for wisdom teeth is derived from comes from the time in a patient’s life when these teeth begin to develop. Wisdom teeth are only found in adults and typically emerge after adult teeth are fully formed. Why call them wisdom teeth? Since they come in at a later time in life, the name is a play on the fact that as we age, we grow wiser — hence, the name wisdom teeth. 

Wisdom teeth: not as harmless as they seem

It is important to note that while the name makes them sound harmless, wisdom teeth inflict damage when they are not removed in a timely manner. Wisdom teeth once served a purpose; today, however, they do more harm than good. 

Wisdom teeth are responsible for a variety of dental health issues, all of which patients are better off avoiding. One problem is that wisdom teeth can cause a lot of stress on your teeth through crowding, because your mouth simply does not have room to house another set of teeth. 

There are many theories behind why humans developed wisdom teeth in the first place. One of their primary purposes was to serve as a spare set of teeth for humans in ancient times.

It is also thought that ancient humans had more space for wisdom teeth in their mouths. This made wisdom teeth an essential part of survival for our ancestors. Today, however, wisdom teeth are little more than an inconvenience to be removed before the situation escalates.

When do wisdom teeth start to come in?

Wisdom teeth come in at a later age. Still, the period to develop wisdom teeth is slightly different for every patient. Typically, your dentist will start checking on your wisdom tooth development at around 17 years of age. It may be as late as your early 20s before you start to feel them emerge.

If you are over the age of 25 and have never felt your wisdom teeth coming in, there is a chance you have a unique advantage. Some scientists theorize that today, humans are developing wisdom teeth less frequently. This means if your dentist has never advised you to remove your wisdom teeth, then you may not have them at all. It’s a good idea to check with your oral hygienist to determine the next right step for your wisdom tooth status.

What was the purpose of wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth have a long history behind them. Anthropologists considered them to be a handy tool for ancient humans. Not only did they act as a spare set of teeth; it was also thought that they might have a more effective use. 

Anthropologists also think that ancient humans’ jaws might have been larger than ours. Thus, the jaw of an ancient human was able to house more teeth effectively, without the crowding we experience today. Long ago, wisdom teeth were also likely used for grinding and chewing on harder foods.

Feeling wisdom teeth start to form

At a more mature age, you might start to feel your wisdom teeth come in. Once you do, it is important to seek a dental professional who can help you develop a treatment plan. It is common to get wisdom teeth removed before you are over the age of 25. You may elect to get them out sooner as well, particularly if a dental specialist recommends it.

Wisdom teeth removal options

The growth pattern of your wisdom teeth will likely determine your treatment options. Some individuals decide to visit with an oral surgeon, who can remove your wisdom teeth in a single appointment. Our in-house oral surgeon at West Henderson Dental & Orthodontics can help exercise this option and extract your wisdom teeth.

If your wisdom teeth grow at a normal angle, your dentist may decide to extract them at a time that’s best for your health.

If you are still curious about your wisdom teeth, it might be time to ask a dentist about them. At West Henderson Dental and Orthodontics, we specialize in all things wisdom teeth. No matter when you decide to have your wisdom teeth removed, we can help steer you in the right direction. Feel free to give us a call at 702-805-0701 or book an appointment with us today!

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