You probably know a few things about wisdom teeth – they can be a nuisance, usually removed, and afterward, you look like a chipmunk while eating ice cream and milkshakes.
However, there’s a lot more to your wisdom teeth!
Here are some things you may find surprising:
Wisdom teeth are called third molars. They got their nickname from the age when they typically grow. Third molars do not appear until the dental arch becomes larger, around the age of 17-25…a time, also referred to as the “age of wisdom.”
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, an estimated 85% of wisdom teeth will eventually need to be removed. This can be because the teeth are impacted or because the area is difficult to reach and difficult to clean.
Thirty-five percent of the population is born without wisdom teeth. Whether our teeth have evolved or culture is responsible is up for debate. But it seems humans no longer need these teeth for survival.
Wisdom teeth are the only teeth not formed in the womb. While most people have four wisdom teeth, having more (supernumerary teeth) or less (hypodontia) is possible.
Nine out of ten people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. When there isn’t enough room for a tooth to enter the mouth fully, it is called “impacted.” If left in the mouth, it may damage neighboring teeth or become decayed due to difficulty reaching and cleaning that area of the mouth and gums.
The most common consequence of impacted wisdom teeth is gum (periodontal) disease.
If wisdom teeth need to be removed, it is best to remove them at a younger age rather than waiting until the periodontal disease becomes a problem. Removing your wisdom teeth is a decision you and your dentist should make.
At StarWhite Dental, we specialize in treating and removing wisdom teeth. Call us for a consultation at (951) 698-4426. We can determine the presence of your or your child’s wisdom teeth and discuss your treatment options.
A Dental implant is a tooth made of a titanium post with a replacement tooth (crown) attached to the top. Dental implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, anchor a dental bridge, or a full arch of teeth.
If you’ve been told that you need to have one or more of your wisdom teeth removed by our dentist, you may be wondering, especially if you are not currently experiencing any painful symptoms. So, if you want your wisdom teeth removal visit StarWhite Dental.