The famous wisdom tooth. While people around you may have theirs growing in, you must be wondering why are yours missing? Wisdom teeth are the final set of teeth an adult will ever grow in their lifetime. It’s reasonable to question why yours are absent.
People Don’t Always Grow Wisdom Teeth
Around 35% of the human population are born without wisdom teeth therefore, it’s a common occurrence. However, there are many reasons behind this lack of dental growth.
- Genes
Genetics is the main factor that the development of wisdom teeth depends on. According to research, 5% to 35% of the population may never form wisdom teeth as they congenitally never formed them. - Evolution
Your missing wisdom teeth are likely due to a gene mutation 400,000 years ago. Our ancestors had larger jaws because they needed them. Their food was tougher and harder to chew however, human diets have evolved since then. Now that softer foods have become part of the regular diet, wisdom teeth have diminished with the need for them. - Age
Wisdom teeth can come quite late in life, so maybe you should wait for a few more years. Wisdom teeth occur even at an advanced age such as in one’s 40’s or 50’s. - Impaction
Jaws have become smaller with evolution therefore wisdom teeth may stay trapped within the jawbone or gums. It is probably that you have wisdom teeth but they just may never surface.
Do Wisdom Teeth Have Any Benefits?
Since many people do have wisdom teeth subsequently it’s safe to assume that wisdom teeth have benefits.
- Maintain Natural Structure:
The presence of wisdom teeth keeps your other teeth from shifting, especially if they are part of your natural jaw structure. - Longevity:
These teeth are quite robust therefore they can last for a long time. If your other teeth get worn with age, wisdom teeth are supplementary. - Alignment:
Wisdom teeth can prevent overcrowding hence they can keep teeth from shifting. In doing so, they support a sturdy row of teeth. - Support for Jawbone:
Wisdom teeth are deeply rooted into the jawbone, as a result they provide extensive support. It’s beneficial for your jawbone’s integrity.
Missing Out By Not Having Wisdom Teeth?
For some people, realizing that they may never develop wisdom teeth can be disappointing. However, don’t be too disappointed as wisdom teeth come with potential negatives.
- Impaction:
Space is not always present to grow wisdom teeth in an individual’s mouth. This can lead to a variety of dental issues such as crowding, misalignment and even be quite painful. - Risk Of Infection:
Wisdom teeth don’t always grow completely as a result partial growth of wisdom teeth occurs. Partially grown wisdom teeth are prone to forming bacteria because they trap food. This can cause swelling and infections. - Pain:
Complications during the growth of wisdom teeth lead to another unfortunate side effect. Pain is associated with growing wisdom teeth while they emerge along with the pressure it may exert on surrounding teeth.
Takeaway
Wisdom teeth can be absent due many factors outside your control. It’s completely normal to not have them. You may be missing out on some unpleasant dental issues due to their lack. Our team at Nimmi Shine Dental in San Diego can provide insight on your dental health, Call (858) 999-8550 to learn more.
