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Existing Patients: (561) 395-0550
7280 W Palmetto Park Rd
Suite 206N
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Did you know the problems associated with your third molars might be linked to human evolutionary development? It's because, over the ages, human jaws have gotten smaller. Research links this decrease to a change in diet and an increase in brain size. Yet, while we've become smarter and can enjoy more food options than our prehistoric ancestors, there's a dental downside. Smaller jaws don't always leave enough room for all our teeth. This situation typically affects the third molars, more commonly known as our wisdom teeth.
As the last permanent teeth to develop in the oral cavity and the final ones to come into place, the wisdom teeth are the most prone to issues. In some cases, they do not have sufficient room to erupt, become impacted, exhibit incomplete or abnormal development, or cause problems for the adjacent teeth and the surrounding tissues. According to statistics from the American Dental Association, approximately 85% of people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed.
Most individuals develop four wisdom teeth. However, there are cases of individuals who do not develop wisdom teeth at all, those who develop fewer than four, and rare situations where individuals develop extra ones. Unless they are impacted, the third molars generally erupt and emerge through the gums at the back of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 21 years. Since this period coincides with the transition from teen years into adulthood, a time of life known as the "Age of Wisdom," these teeth are commonly referred to as the "wisdom teeth."
A wisdom tooth is considered impacted when it is submerged under gum tissue or bone and unable to erupt into position. Based on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions are classified in a few different ways. Soft tissue impactions occur when a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue. If a wisdom tooth remains completely or partially obstructed by bone, it's known as a bony impaction.
At the office of Marisol Ruiz, DMD, we monitor our patients' dental health at every checkup visit. Our examination includes checking the development, location, and health of the wisdom teeth, the adjacent teeth, and the surrounding tissues. If your wisdom teeth have room to erupt into place, align correctly, do not have large cavities, and not cause damage to the adjacent teeth or tissues, extractions may not be required. If we recommend wisdom teeth extractions, we may perform the procedure in our office or make a referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. It all depends on the unique requirements of each case.
In conclusion, understanding the role of wisdom teeth in human evolutionary development can help you make informed decisions about your dental health. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort associated with your third molars, don't hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Our dedicated staff at Marisol Ruiz, DMD is committed to providing you with the highest quality of care and ensuring that your smile stays healthy and bright.
