6 Surprising Facts About Wisdom Teeth

Most people know a handful of wisdom teeth. We usually only think of them when they need to be removed. When they are taken out, your jaw swells like a chipmunk’s pouches, and you get to eat ice cream afterwards.

However, there is more to them than that:

#1. Wisdom Teeth: More Than Just Late Bloomers

Wisdom teeth are scientifically known as third molars. These are the last sets of molars that emerge, typically making their grand appearance between the ages of 17 and 25.

This period was historically referred to as the “age of wisdom,” which is how these molars got their common name.

Unlike the first and second molars that erupt much earlier in childhood, wisdom teeth arrive when we’re supposedly wiser, hence the name.

#2. The Fate of Most Wisdom Teeth: Extraction

You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered why so many people have their wisdom teeth removed. In fact, according to the Australian and New Zealand Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons estimates that 85 per cent of wisdom teeth will eventually require extraction.

#3. Not Everyone Gets Wisdom Teeth

Here’s a surprising fact: About 35% of people are born without wisdom teeth. While it might seem strange, this is an evolutionary adaptation. Over time, as human diets have become softer and cooking has reduced the need for a third set of molars, some people have stopped developing them.

In some populations, the percentage of people without wisdom teeth is even higher. This variation is linked to genetics and is an example of how human evolution continues to respond to changes in our environment and lifestyle.

#4. Research Is Underway to Prevent Their Growth

Given the complications that often accompany wisdom teeth, it’s no surprise that researchers are exploring ways to prevent them from growing in the first place. Interestingly, wisdom teeth are the only teeth that do not form in the womb. This unique characteristic makes them a target for scientific intervention.

Current studies are investigating various methods to inhibit the growth of wisdom teeth.

While nothing is commercially available, future generations might avoid wisdom teeth altogether.

#5. Impacted Wisdom Teeth Are Surprisingly Common

It might surprise you that 90% of people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. An impacted tooth does not have enough room to emerge or develop normally. This can lead to many problems, including pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.

Impacted wisdom teeth are frequently extracted because they can be extremely uncomfortable and dangerous for dental health. In some cases, impacted teeth can lead to cysts or other complications that require surgical intervention.

#6. Your Diet Might Be to Blame for Impacted Wisdom Teeth

You might not have considered this, but your diet could determine whether your wisdom teeth cause problems. Early humans had a much stricter diet, consisting of raw plants, nuts, and meat. This required more chewing and led to greater wear on their teeth, which made space for wisdom teeth to emerge without issue.

In contrast, modern diets are much softer, leading to less wear on our teeth and, consequently, less space for wisdom teeth to come in. This lack of space is a significant reason so many wisdom teeth become impacted and require extraction.

Why Extract Wisdom Teeth?

With all these facts in mind, you might wonder why it’s so common to remove wisdom teeth. The primary reason for extraction is to prevent future problems or to address existing issues.

Here are some common reasons wisdom teeth are extracted:

• Partial Eruption: Sometimes, a wisdom tooth will only break through partway, creating a flap of gum tissue that can trap food and bacteria. This can lead to painful infections and swelling.
• Impaction: If your jaw isn’t large enough to accommodate the wisdom teeth, they can become impacted, unable to emerge fully. This may result in infection and harm to neighbouring teeth, not to mention severe discomfort.
• Awkward Angles: Wisdom teeth may sometimes emerge at odd angles, pushing against other teeth or the jawbone. This can cause discomfort and misalignment in your bite.
• Crowding: The arrival of wisdom teeth can crowd your existing teeth, especially if you’ve previously had orthodontic treatment.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Procedure

Feeling a bit apprehensive is natural if you’re facing wisdom tooth extraction.

Here’s what you can expect:

Step 1: Very often, you may be required to take a full-mouth or partial X-ray of the area experiencing pain.

Step 2: The dentist will decide if surgery is required. In some situations, if the infection is in the tooth or the area, the dentist will give you antibiotics and delay the extraction.

Step 3: Depending on the degree of the case or how many teeth will be pulled, the dentist will decide between local and general anaesthesia. If you are supposed to undergo general anaesthesia, you are advised to fast for at least twelve hours before the operation. This may include Nitrous oxide or intravenous sedatives.

Step 4: The wisdom tooth’s surrounding tissue is opened.

Step 5: The ligament between the tooth and the socket holding it in place is cut, and the tooth is gently rocked to loosen before it is pulled out. It may be divided into pieces if that will help the extraction, as the tooth may, for instance, be reduced to mere pieces.

Step 6: The extraction-induced depression is sewn up. Dissolvable threads are usually used for the stitching process.

Step 7: In case of bleeding, a small gauzed cotton swab is applied to the operating area.

Step 8: Your doctor will explain how you should take care of the area of the newly removed tooth; for instance, do not take spicy foods, do not take hot beverages and alcohol, and keep your head high while sleeping.

How Long Does the Extraction Process Take?

Depending on the case, if the surgery involves removing a fully erupted wisdom tooth in the upper jaw, it should take around 35 minutes.

An impacted tooth takes longer because the bone enveloping it must be opened first. This should take between 45 minutes and one hour.

Of course, each case is different, so ask your West Ryde dentist!

Wisdom Teeth Removal in West Ryde

At My Local Dentists West Ryde, we provide personalised service. Our dentists are all highly qualified professionals who have graduated from the University of Sydney and are highly motivated.

Along with the dentists, the supporting staff is highly dedicated and experienced in ensuring that each visit with us is as comfortable as possible.

We aim to make quality dental care affordable.

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