Wisdom teeth are most properly called third molars. If they emerge (and not everyone’s do) they usually appear in the young adult years — between about ages 17 and 24. There are many people who think of wisdom teeth as “Those things that cause problems and need wisdom tooth extraction in Santa Rosa, CA.” For today’s patients, wisdom teeth can be carefully monitored in a dental office, so patients can be referred to an oral surgeon if third molars are not welcome in a mouth.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
We may never know for sure why humans have third molars, but one scientific theory is that our early ancestors needed extra teeth in their twenties, due to poor oral care and a diet full of hard foods that demanded lots of chewing. Perhaps it was good to have new teeth that emerged, just when some of the other teeth were wearing out. In modern times, with better dental hygiene and a healthier diet, you may be referred to an oral surgeon for wisdom tooth extraction.
Maybe There is Not Room
By the late teenage years, many teens have a fully functional and attractive smile. When wisdom teeth look like they might crowd in, your dentist or your orthodontist may recommend extraction as the prudent option. When a teen attends regular checkups and cleanings, X-rays and other dental technology can alert family dentists and orthodontists that wisdom teeth might try to crash the party.
Maybe They Are Stuck
Wisdom teeth can be impacted in the jaw. This means they are blocked in their path, and cannot emerge. They may be impacted by other teeth, or they can be angled in a way that means they will bump up against bone, rather than the soft tissue of the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can become very painful. Extracting impacted wisdom teeth is highly preferable to letting them continue to try to push their way out.
We Have More Wisdom Teeth Facts to Share
If you are still curious about aspects of wisdom teeth (or third molars), a trusted oral surgeon has the answers. Schedule the time you need in Rohnert Park, CA by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery at 707-545-4625 to schedule your visit today.