Wisdom tooth extractions are commonly necessary for individuals in their late teens or early 20s. In fact, the procedure might even be considered a sort of rite of passage. However, not everyone undergoes this procedure. Some individuals can keep their wisdom teeth without any severe consequences. Others, though, do not even have wisdom teeth! Why do some people never develop their third molars, and how can you tell if you have them? This blog post provides some important information.
Why Some People Never Get Their Wisdom Teeth
It is impossible to say how many people never develop wisdom teeth. Data on the subject is very broad, with one estimate stating that somewhere between 5% and 37% of people are missing at least one of their third molars.
There are a few possible reasons to explain why some people never get their wisdom teeth. The most likely boils down to genetics. Experts believe that for our ancient human ancestors, wisdom teeth were necessary due to their rough diet. In modern times, though, people tend to eat softer foods that are easier to consume. Therefore, wisdom teeth are no longer necessary. The human genome may be adapting to that fact.
Other factors that might play a role in a person’s lack of wisdom teeth include their environment and their dietary habits.
Do You Have Wisdom Teeth?
If your wisdom teeth have erupted beyond the gumline, you can probably feel them if you move your tongue toward the back of your mouth. You might even be able to see them in the mirror if you are able to open your mouth wide enough.
But what if you cannot see or feel your wisdom teeth? Does that mean you do not have them? Not necessarily. They might be impacted (stuck beneath the gumline). To find out if they are present in your mouth, you should visit your dentist. X-rays can reveal whether or not you have wisdom teeth.
Of course, depending on your age, it is also possible that you do not yet have your wisdom teeth. They usually develop sometime during the teenage years. During your routine checkups, your dental team can keep an eye on your mouth and let you know when and if your wisdom teeth start to make an appearance.
The Importance of Wisdom Tooth Removal
It is not necessary for everyone to get their wisdom teeth removed. For most people, though, the procedure is important for their oral and overall health. Failure to get the wisdom teeth removed in a timely manner could lead to pain, cysts, infections, and other complications. If your dentist or oral surgeon advises you to undergo extractions, it would be in your best interests to comply.
Not everyone has wisdom teeth. For those who do, though, monitoring their third molars is vital!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Steve Koo and William Shepard are proud to serve as the board-certified oral surgeons in our Katy office. Along with our talented support staff, they provide expert wisdom tooth removal. If you believe your third molars should be removed or you have questions about the extraction process, we invite you to contact us at 832-353-1100.