Are you bothered by pain at the back of your mouth? That could be the feeling of your wisdom teeth erupting. The pain, crowding, and occasionally even infections caused by these late molars is not surprising at all.
For those who desire wisdom teeth extractions in Markham, knowing very well what these teeth do may help alleviate your fears. Why do we have them, anyway? You’re not alone when you think about that. Ancestors used them. But modern mouths say a different thing.
This blog is about the experience of wisdom teeth growing, what their purposes are, and whether they are indeed good for oral health.
What Do Wisdom Teeth Do?
The final molars that erupt into the mouth are wisdom teeth, also known as third molars. By the time they reach the ages of 17 to 25, the majority of people will have grown. Most of the time, they arrive without any issues.
For some, though, they have to stay under the gums or end up causing dental troubles because of a lack of space.
In the past, when humans had wider jaws and a coarse diet, wisdom teeth played an important role. Their function has become less necessary today, yet they remain a part of our anatomy.
The Evolutionary Purpose of Third Molars
What is the purpose of third molars? The answer lies in human evolution.
Early humans needed extra chewing power. Their diets consisted of coarse foods like roots, raw meat, nuts, and leaves. These tough foods caused heavy wear on the teeth, so having a third set of molars at a later stage of life helped compensate for any lost or worn teeth.
The role of wisdom teeth became less significant as meals became softer and cooking methods improved. Throughout generations, human jaws started to recede, making little space for these additional teeth.
Common Issues Caused by Wisdom Teeth
Though not all wisdom teeth cause problems, many do. Here are some of the common concerns:
- Impaction: The teeth remain trapped in the jawbone or under the gums.
- Crowding: They push other teeth out of alignment.
- Pain and Swelling: Pressure and inflammation in the jaw.
- Infection: Bacteria can build up around partially erupted teeth.
- Tooth Damage: They may cause decay or damage to nearby molars.
Because of these issues, dentists often recommend wisdom tooth extraction even before symptoms appear.
How Do You Know If You Should Remove Them?
While some wisdom teeth can coexist peacefully in your mouth, others need to be removed. Check for the following signs that could indicate a problem:
- Gums close to the back of the mouth that are swollen or bleeding
- Jaw stiffness or discomfort when chewing
- Headaches or ear pain that doesn’t have another cause
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
It’s best to consult a dentist if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms. Early detection can help avert later, more catastrophic problems.
Are Wisdom Teeth Always Useless?
Not always. In rare instances, wisdom teeth can aid in chewing if they erupt straight and line up with the other teeth. In fact, some people manage to keep all four without ever feeling pain or misalignment.
However, this is uncommon. Most mouths today simply don’t have the space to accommodate extra molars without affecting other teeth. In these situations, the potential benefits of keeping wisdom teeth do not outweigh the risks.
When Is Extraction the Best Option?
Typically, extraction is the best option if:
- The wisdom teeth are impacted or infected.
- They are growing unevenly and pushing on neighbouring teeth.
- There is not enough space in the jaw.
- They’re causing swelling, pain, or cysts.
To decide whether extraction is required, your dentist will take X-rays and do a clinical evaluation. When taken care of early, wisdom tooth extractions in Markham are a simple procedure.
What Happens After Removal?
Recovery from wisdom tooth removal is typically smooth, especially when the procedure is done before major issues arise. You may experience mild swelling or discomfort for a few days, but most patients resume normal activities within a week.
To promote healing:
- Observe the aftercare guidelines provided by your dentist.
- For the first few days, limit your diet to soft foods.
- Steer clear of straws, smoking, and thorough rinsing.
- Maintain cleanliness and give the region a gentle washing with salt water.
With the right care, you’ll be back to normal quickly and free from any wisdom tooth-related discomfort.
Wrapping Up!
Although wisdom teeth may have had a useful function for our ancestors, they frequently do more harm than good in the modern world. Third molars have an evolutionary history, but wisdom teeth’s current role is frequently boiled down to discomfort, misalignment, or infection.
That’s why regular dental check-ups are essential to determine whether they’re helping or hurting your oral health.
Relief Begins with the Right Advice
If you’re experiencing discomfort or unsure about the role your wisdom teeth are playing, it’s time to consult a professional.
At Dentistry In Markham, our experienced team is here to assess your situation and offer guidance on whether extraction is the right choice for you.
Our team of trusted dentist in Markham, is committed to protecting your smile, whether that means monitoring your wisdom teeth or removing them before they cause trouble.
Visit our dental clinic in Markham for a full consultation and customized care you can trust.