How many wisdom teeth are there?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are a common topic of discussion among dental professionals and patients alike. They are the last teeth to emerge in the mouth, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. But how many wisdom teeth are there, and why are they often problematic? Let’s delve into the details to understand more about these mysterious teeth.
The human mouth typically has four wisdom teeth, two on each side of the upper and lower jaws. These teeth are named “wisdom” because they usually appear when a person is mature enough to make wise decisions, hence the name. However, not everyone has wisdom teeth, as some individuals may have fewer or none at all.
The reason why wisdom teeth can be problematic is that they often lack sufficient space to grow in properly. This is due to the fact that our jaws have evolved to be smaller than they were in our ancestors, which means there is less room for additional teeth. As a result, wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they grow at an angle and become trapped beneath the gum line or adjacent to other teeth.
When wisdom teeth are impacted, they can cause a variety of issues, including pain, infection, crowding of other teeth, and damage to surrounding gums and bone. In some cases, wisdom teeth may need to be extracted to prevent these complications.
The decision to extract wisdom teeth is typically made by a dentist or oral surgeon, based on factors such as the position of the teeth, the presence of any impaction, and the overall health of the patient. Some individuals may have their wisdom teeth removed prophylactically, even if they are not currently causing any problems, to prevent potential future issues.
In conclusion, there are usually four wisdom teeth in the human mouth, but not everyone has them. These teeth can become problematic if they are impacted and do not have enough space to grow in properly. It is essential for individuals to maintain regular dental check-ups to monitor the health of their wisdom teeth and to address any issues promptly.