What Do You Know About Wisdom Teeth?

Created on December 15, 2015

The usual things people know about Wisdom Teeth are: They are big, they can be a nuisance, they are usually removed…and afterwards, you look like a chipmunk and you get to eat ice cream and milk shakes. But there are more things to know about wisdom teeth…here are a few you might find interesting:

• 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 we no longer need these teeth for survival.
• Wisdom teeth are the only teeth that are not formed in the womb.
• While most people have four wisdom teeth, having more (supernumerary teeth) or less (hypodontia) is possible.
• Wisdom teeth are actually called the third molars. They got their nickname from the age when they typically grow in. 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.
• If wisdom teeth need to be removed, it is best to remove them at a younger age.
• 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 the difficulty in reaching and cleaning that area of the mouth and gums.
• The most common and serious consequence of impacted wisdom teeth is gum (periodontal) disease which can affect your general health and the health of your mouth and gums.

Dr. Peck would be happy to discuss with you the removal of your or your child’s wisdom teeth. Call, today, for a consultation: (413) 241-3264.

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