It is common knowledge that when you get to a certain age, you need to have your wisdom teeth removed. And after they are taken out, you get celebratory ice-creams and milkshakes. Beyond these, most people do not know a lot about wisdom teeth. Here are 5 interesting facts:
- Why they are called wisdom teeth
People grow them between the ages of 17 and 25; often referred to as the “age of wisdom.” That is why teeth that are really the third molars are referred to as wisdom teeth.
- They don’t have any major functions
In the prehistoric times, wisdom teeth were needed to chew raw meat, leaves, and roots; the majority of their diet at the time. Since the world is now more refined, the third molars currently have no real functions.
- Some people never get them
Quite a number of people never grow a wisdom tooth. Studies indicate that as many as 35% of the world population are born without them.
- Impacted wisdom teeth are very common
If a wisdom tooth does not find enough space to grow in the mouth, it leads to a condition called impacted teeth. If an impacted tooth is not removed, it may damage the teeth close to it and cause an infection. Nearly 90% of people with wisdom teeth get impacted teeth.
- Most wisdom teeth need to be removed
To avoid impacted teeth, a majority of wisdom teeth need to be removed.
If you have inflamed gums or are feeling some pain close to your molars, that may be an indication that your wisdom teeth are getting impacted. Visit a dentist immediately to find out the next course of action.