Why Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed

Written by: Paige Leal

Most people have heard stories about getting their wisdom teeth removed. Whether it's seeing funny videos of people after surgery or hearing older siblings complain about swollen cheeks, wisdom teeth are something many teenagers eventually have to deal with. But if they usually cause problems, why do we even have them in the first place?

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Scientists believe these teeth were much more useful thousands of years ago. Early humans ate tough foods like roots, nuts, leaves, and raw meat, which caused a lot of wear and tear on their teeth. Having an extra set of molars helped them chew food more effectively and replace teeth that had been damaged or lost over time.

As humans evolved, our diets changed. We began cooking food and using tools to prepare meals, making food easier to chew. At the same time, our jaws gradually became smaller. Even though our jaws changed, wisdom teeth never disappeared. As a result, many people today simply do not have enough space in their mouths for these extra molars.

This lack of space is one of the main reasons wisdom teeth often need to be removed. When there isn't enough room for them to grow normally, they can become impacted, meaning they get trapped beneath the gums or grow at an angle. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth. In some cases, they can even damage nearby teeth.

Another reason dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth is that they can be difficult to clean. Since they are located at the very back of the mouth, food and bacteria can easily become trapped around them. This increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and infections. Even wisdom teeth that seem healthy can sometimes lead to future problems if they are left untreated.

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. Some people have enough space in their jaws for the teeth to come in normally and remain healthy. Others do not even have wisdom teeth. However, many dentists monitor wisdom teeth closely through exams and X-rays to determine whether removal is the best option.

Although wisdom teeth once played an important role in helping our ancestors survive, they are often more trouble than they're worth today. Thanks to modern dentistry, removing them can help prevent pain and protect the overall health of a person's smile.