Why Do We Get Wisdom Teeth?

 


We get wisdom teeth because of our evolutionary past, but their presence today presents a bit of a paradox. Here's a breakdown:

Why our ancestors needed them:

  • Tough diet: Early humans ate raw, tough foods like nuts, roots, and uncooked meat. They needed strong teeth to break down these foods, and extra molars like wisdom teeth were helpful for grinding.
  • Larger jaws: Our ancestors also had larger jaws, which provided plenty of space for these extra teeth to erupt comfortably.

The modern twist:

  • Softer food: As humans evolved, our diet shifted to softer, cooked foods. This reduced the need for such strong grinding power.
  • Smaller jaws: Additionally, our jaws gradually became smaller due to factors like brain size increase. This often leaves insufficient space for wisdom teeth to erupt properly, leading to crowding, impaction, and potential pain or complications.

So, are they useless?

Not exactly. While many wisdom teeth pose problems, in some cases, they can erupt normally and function like any other molar. However, due to the potential for issues, many dentists recommend their removal if deemed necessary.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • Wisdom teeth are a remnant of our evolutionary past, adapted to a tougher diet and larger jaws.
  • In modern times, their eruption can be problematic due to space constraints and softer food requirements.
  • Whether to keep or remove them depends on individual cases and a dentist's assessment.
Remember, consulting a dentist is crucial for understanding your own wisdom teeth situation and deciding on the best course of action. Click here for more details: childrens dentistry of san diego.

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