Most people expect to develop a set of four wisdom teeth at some point in their lives. These vestigial molars typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 and can cause a wide range of dental issues if they go unnoticed or untreated. However, it is not uncommon for people to have more than four wisdom teeth. In fact, there have been recorded cases where people have seven, eight, and even nine wisdom teeth. What should you know about dental anomalies like these? Let’s investigate.
Firstly, what are wisdom teeth? Your molars, located at the back of your mouth, are responsible for grinding up food before swallowing. Wisdom teeth are merely an evolutionary remnant that has not yet gone away. In years gone by, our ancestors required more molars to sufficiently make use of a more raw and unprocessed diet. Nowadays, we rely heavily on our food processors, so wisdom teeth are not as crucial as they once were.
Wisdom teeth can cause discomfort and pain due to swelling or impaction when they start to grow in. Some people may have their wisdom teeth removed before they cause any issues, while others may have to wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Dentists usually recommend removing problematic wisdom teeth to avoid complications like periodontal gum disease, tooth decay, or damage to surrounding teeth.
Now, back to the topic of having more than four wisdom teeth. Known as hyperdontia, it is a relatively rare condition that affects about 1-4% of the population. Usually, the extra teeth grow in at the back of the mouth, with the additional wisdom teeth growing behind the existing set. In extreme cases, it may also affect other teeth in different parts of the mouth.
As mentioned earlier, having more wisdom teeth than normal can lead to dental problems and pain. They can be more difficult to remove, and those left behind can lead to a lack of space in the mouth, causing crowding, impacting the bite, and leading to various types of malocclusion.
Complications from hyperdontia can result in more frequent dental visits, dental surgery, antibiotics, and more. It is also essential to remember that more wisdom teeth do not necessarily equate to more intelligence or wisdom!
In conclusion, dental anomalies such as having more than four wisdom teeth can happen and cause a real disruption to one’s oral health. Thankfully, dentists can diagnose and advise on the best course of action for the patient’s overall health. A good oral hygiene routine supplemented with regular dental checkups and cleanings could also help prevent severe complications. So, make sure to keep an eye on your wisdom teeth, and don’t hesitate to contact a dental professional if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort.
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