Where In Your Mouth Are Your Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth can cause a variety of problems when they don't have enough space to grow properly. In this article, we'll explore where in your mouth your wisdom teeth are located and why they can be such a nuisance.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow in your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. These teeth typically begin to emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, although some people's wisdom teeth never emerge at all.
Wisdom teeth are believed to have been useful to our ancestors who needed extra molars to grind down tough foods like roots, nuts, and meat. However, because modern diets are softer and easier to chew, wisdom teeth are now considered more of a nuisance than an asset.
Where Are Wisdom Teeth Located?
Wisdom teeth are located at the back of your mouth, behind your second molars. They are the last teeth to emerge and often don't have enough space to grow properly. This can cause a variety of problems including pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they are unable to emerge properly, they can become infected and cause swelling, pain, and other complications. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth may need to be surgically removed.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
There are many theories about why humans have wisdom teeth. Some scientists believe that our ancestors needed these extra molars to chew tough foods like roots and meat. Others believe that wisdom teeth are a leftover from our evolutionary past and that they no longer serve a useful purpose.
Regardless of why we have wisdom teeth, they can be a source of pain and discomfort for many people. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your mouth, it's important to see a dentist or oral surgeon who can evaluate your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action.
What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause?
Wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems when they don't have enough space to grow properly. Some of the most common problems associated with wisdom teeth include:
- Pain and discomfort: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth. This pain can be particularly severe when you chew or bite down.
- Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can also become infected, causing swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums and jaw.
- Crowding: If your mouth is already crowded, wisdom teeth can cause further crowding, leading to crooked or misaligned teeth.
- Damage to adjacent teeth: Wisdom teeth can also damage adjacent teeth, particularly if they are growing in at an angle. This can cause decay and other dental problems.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Many dentists and oral surgeons recommend removing wisdom teeth before they cause problems. This is because it's easier to remove wisdom teeth before they have fully emerged and become rooted in the jaw. Additionally, removing wisdom teeth can prevent a variety of dental problems down the road.
If you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your mouth, or if your dentist has recommended that your wisdom teeth be removed, it's important to schedule a consultation with an oral surgeon who can evaluate your teeth and recommend the best course of action.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge in your mouth. They are located at the back of your mouth and can cause a variety of problems when they don't have enough space to grow properly. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your mouth, it's important to see a dentist or oral surgeon who can evaluate your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action.
