The Importance of Tooth Wisdom in Dental Health: Understanding Your Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually start to emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties. These teeth can cause problems if they become impacted, infected or they grow in the wrong direction. That’s why dental professionals recommend removal of wisdom teeth at an early age to prevent future complications.
Why do we have wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are believed to be remnants of our ancestor’s dietary preferences. Early humans ate a diet consisting mainly of tough and fibrous foods. Wisdom teeth helped to grind and chew these tough foods, but as the human diet evolved to include softer, cooked foods, these teeth became vestigial organs.
Why should we care about our wisdom teeth?
It’s important to understand how wisdom teeth can affect our dental health. Wisdom teeth can grow at an angle, pushing against neighboring teeth and causing crowding or misalignment. Moreover, wisdom teeth that are partially erupted can create a pocket in gum tissue where bacteria can grow, leading to infection and inflammation.
Can wisdom teeth cause problems even if they have not erupted?
Yes, wisdom teeth that remain in the jaw can cause problems even if they have not erupted. These teeth can create cysts, tumors, and infections in the surrounding bone that could damage the adjacent teeth and present significant health risks.
What are the signs of wisdom teeth problems?
Pain in the back of the mouth, swelling in the gums, jaw stiffness, and soreness are signs of wisdom teeth problems. Additionally, difficulty opening the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and inflamed gums are also indications that wisdom teeth are causing difficulties.
When should we remove wisdom teeth?
Dental professionals usually recommend removal of wisdom teeth before they cause problems, preferably before the teeth fully develop. Younger patients often have fewer complications with the extraction procedure and experience a faster recovery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wisdom teeth can cause severe dental health problems if not appropriately managed. It’s important to visit a dentist regularly for proper checkups, and dental professionals can monitor wisdom teeth development and suggest appropriate treatment. Don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist if you experience any discomfort or pain in the back of the mouth, as swift action can prevent future, more serious problems. Remember, your dental health is vital to your overall wellbeing, so maintain your oral hygiene and wisdom teeth, and schedule those regular dental appointments.
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