Nipomo Dentist, Dr. Perry Patel, Answers The Question ‘Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?’
Extracting wisdom teeth, those pesky molars that cause pain and swollen jaws, is a very common dental procedure that prompts patients to ask “Why we do have wisdom teeth if they wind up being pulled?” Nipomo dentist, Dr. Perry Patel answers the top questions patients have about wisdom teeth.
Wisdom teeth, or the third molars, begin to appear between the ages of 17 and 21. These teeth are called “wisdom teeth” because they appear at a more mature age than other teeth.
According to the American Dental Association, it’s normal to feel some gum and mouth sensitivity when wisdom teeth begin to appear and not everyone needs to have wisdom teeth removed. We can have as many as four, two uppers and two lower, or as few as one. Some people don’t have wisdom teeth at all. And some lucky people have no trouble with their wisdom teeth.
Problems arise when there is not enough space for wisdom teeth to surface properly. The teeth may remain trapped in the jaw or under the gums, causing pain and inflammation, or they may through in the wrong position, putting pressure on other teeth and creating spaces that are hard to floss and trap food and bacteria.
“Why is there not enough space for wisdom teeth?” we ask.
A 2017 article in Science Daily reports that the studies of Ohio State University professor of anthropology Debbie Guatelli-Steinberg have revealed some interesting facts about all of our teeth, including the wisdom teeth, based on studies of fossilized teeth. Ninety-nine percent of “humans’ evolutionary history was spent eating foods that were hunted or gathered. Our current diets of soft, processed and sugary foods are nothing like the diets for which our teeth are adapted.” Guatelli-Steinberg states that soft diets don’t stimulate jaw growth and as a result wisdom teeth become impacted. “Impacted wisdom teeth became 10 times more prevalent after the Industrial Revolution than it was previously.”
The Nipomo dentist, Dr. Patel, said that as wisdom teeth begin to come it, it’s important to monitor them for the following:
- Wisdom teeth that are not in the right position are difficult to floss and allow food to become trapped giving cavity-causing bacteria a place to grow.
- Wisdom teeth that only come in part of the way give infection an entry into the gums and jaw.
- Not having enough room in the jaw can cause wisdom teeth to crowd and damage neighboring teeth.
- An impacted wisdom tooth can form a cyst that can damage nearby teeth and supporting bone.
Some swelling and pain might be associated with healthy wisdom teeth coming through the gums. But because these same symptoms are also associated with problems with wisdom teeth it is important to have an exam at the first sign of pain or swelling.
Dr. Perry Patel applies progressive dental care based on the latest research and technologies and his years of education and experience, Dr. Patel uses the latest techniques, materials, and technologies to provide comprehensive treatment plans for his patients. His dedication to being progressive while also offering good old-fashioned hospitality extends throughout the entire office staff.
For more information on proper dental hygiene, cosmetic dentistry and whitening procedures, contact the office of Dr. Perry Patel, DDS.
This press release is by Paso Robles marketing and publicity company Access Publishing, 607 Creston Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446. (805) 226-9890.
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