Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth that usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. However, many people wonder if everyone develops a set of third molars. The answer is not the same for everyone. While some people develop them without any complications, there are people who experience some complications or don’t develop them at all.
Understanding the presence and absence of third molars can help you take care of your oral health. In this blog, we learn whether everyone has wisdom teeth and when to consult a dentist. So, let’s begin!
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that appear at the very back of your mouth. Most people develop up to four wisdom teeth, one in each corner. However, many people have fewer teeth or none at all.
Although the appearance of wisdom teeth is common, they can still cause problems. You can experience pain when the teeth break through the gums, and if there is not enough space to accommodate the third molars, they become impacted below the gum surface.
Does Everyone Develop Wisdom Teeth?
The answer is no, not everyone develops wisdom teeth. Also, the number of third molars can vary from person to person. Some people have all four molars, while some have two, and some develop none at all.
There are different factors that can affect the appearance of wisdom teeth. Factors like genetics, evolution, and ancestry can determine the appearance. Because of such factors, it is normal for some people to never have wisdom teeth.
Why Some People Don’t Have Wisdom Teeth
By understanding the following reasons, you can learn why wisdom teeth might not develop in some people.
Genetic Factors:
Your genes can largely influence whether or not you develop the third molars. If your parents or close relatives don’t have wisdom teeth, there is a chance you might not develop them either.
Evolutionary Changes:
Human jaws have become smaller over time because of changes in diet and lifestyle. As a result, wisdom teeth may fail to develop or become impacted when there is not enough space in the jaw.
Jaw Development:
People who simply have smaller jaws may experience unerupted or partially erupted wisdom teeth.
Complications of Wisdom Teeth
Here are some common complications that may occur due to wisdom teeth development:
- Impacted Wisdom Tooth: It occurs when the tooth becomes trapped beneath the gums and starts growing at an angle.
- Alignment Issues: Wisdom teeth may cause the nearby teeth to push against each other as they attempt to erupt. This can cause bite alignment issues.
- Gum Infections: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets that collect bacteria and food particles, which increases the risk of gum infections.
- Tooth Decay and Cavities: It can be hard to clean the wisdom teeth properly, which increases the risk of cavities.
Final Thoughts
Having fewer or no wisdom teeth at all is completely normal. Several factors influence how and when third molars develop. While some people experience complications, others don’t have any issues.
For wisdom teeth extraction and monitoring, you can contact Smile Artisans Comprehensive Dentistry & Orthodontics. Call us at (832) 220-6087 to schedule your appointment with us!