Wisdom teeth are the last set of adult ones to come in. They start to erupt in the late teen years to early 20s, but they can lead trouble for certain people. These structures can cause discomfort as they erupt, but did you know not everyone has them? It might seem odd, but it’s true! Here’s more about why these third molars can go missing and whether it’s a problem or not.
Why Doesn’t Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?
According to the Dental Research Journey, it’s believed that 5% to 37% of patients don’t have wisdom teeth. The exact reason for this situation is unknown, but genetics is believed to be one variable. So, if your parents don’t have them, then you might not have them as well. Other factors that may come into play are how the diet, chewing function, and environment of humans have changed.
Are Missing Wisdom Teeth A Cause for Concern?
While some people may not have their third molars, it’s generally not a problem. In fact, the opposite can be true for people who do have them! That’s because there usually isn’t enough room in the jaw for them. So, complications, like overcrowding, are not uncommon for patients to experience. This can lead to many getting them removed to find relief.
However, just because you don’t see your wisdom teeth doesn’t mean you don’t have them. They might not have erupted past the gumline, meaning they are impacted. It’s also possible for them to come in at an angle, so by talking to your dentist, you can get to the bottom of what is true for you.
Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
As was mentioned above, these third molars often cause issues for many people. You can tell if they are trouble if you are experiencing:
- Worsening discomfort around the tooth. It can start mild and progress until it causes problems eating and speaking.
- The surrounding gums are swollen and red.
- Your teeth are starting to shift. This can happen as the pressure from the wisdom teeth erupting can move their neighbors.
Some people may not have any issues with these structures, but if you are, then getting them removed may be your best bet. You will be able to avoid complications like an increased risk of dental problems.
While you might be jealous of those who don’t have them, your dentist is here to make sure they don’t cause trouble; that way, you can keep your smile in great shape and pain-free.
About the Practice
At Villagio Family & Cosmetic Dental, you benefit from a compassionate team of dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are here to help the Katy community get the best grins they deserve, even if that calls for a wisdom tooth extraction. By having a consultation, we can double-check to see if they will cause problems, then give you the comfortable treatment you deserve. If you want to see if your third molars will be an issue later on, schedule an appointment or call our office at (281) 395-2100.