Will Humans Evolve To Not Have Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in the human mouth, typically emerging during the late teenage years or early adulthood. For many people, these teeth cause pain, discomfort, and even infection, leading to their removal. So, the question arises: will humans evolve to not have wisdom teeth?
The Purpose of Wisdom Teeth
Anthropologists believe that wisdom teeth were necessary for our ancient ancestors who had larger jaws and needed the extra teeth to chew tough food. However, with the advent of softer diets and utensils, the human jaw has become smaller over time, leaving less room for wisdom teeth to grow. This has led to the complications and discomfort experienced by many people today.
The Role of Evolution
Evolution is a slow process that takes place over thousands of years. It is possible that humans may eventually evolve to not have wisdom teeth, but it is unlikely to happen anytime soon. The reason for this is that wisdom teeth are not a life-threatening issue, and therefore, natural selection will not play a significant role in their removal.
The Impact of Modern Medicine
In modern times, wisdom teeth are often removed before they cause any problems. This has become a common practice, with millions of people undergoing wisdom teeth extraction every year. Therefore, the need for humans to evolve to not have wisdom teeth has become less pressing, as modern medicine can take care of the issue.
The Future of Wisdom Teeth
While it is unlikely that humans will evolve to not have wisdom teeth in the near future, advances in technology and medicine may lead to a more comfortable and less invasive wisdom teeth extraction process. This could make the need for evolution in this area less pressing.
Conclusion
While wisdom teeth can be a nuisance for many people, the evolution of humans to not have them is not guaranteed. Modern medicine has made it possible to remove them before they cause any problems, and advances in technology may lead to a more comfortable extraction process in the future. As of now, the best course of action is to consult with a dentist and make a decision based on individual circumstances.