Useful Knowledge for Wisdom Teeth | Dentist in Carol Stream IL

Understanding Wisdom Teeth: Insights from KL Family Dental of Carol Stream

Wisdom teeth, known as the third set of molars, usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Nearly everyone will encounter their wisdom teeth at some point, so let’s delve into these intriguing and sometimes problematic teeth, courtesy of your Dentist in Carol Stream IL.

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?

In early human history, wisdom teeth were crucial for chewing and eating a tough diet consisting of leaves, roots, and meat. Due to this diet, teeth wore down faster, necessitating a third row of molars. As our diets have evolved, wisdom teeth are no longer essential. Interestingly, some people never develop wisdom teeth due to evolutionary changes, while others do without any issues. However, around 85% of people with wisdom teeth will need to have them removed.

Ongoing research into wisdom teeth has led to fascinating discoveries. For example, they can be used to produce stem cells, making them potentially valuable even after extraction. Scientists are also exploring methods to prevent wisdom teeth from developing altogether.

How Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?

Over time, human jaws have become smaller, leaving insufficient space for additional teeth. As a result, wisdom teeth can crowd other teeth, leading to cosmetic issues such as crooked teeth, as well as pain in the jaw, swollen gums, and other oral irritations.

Wisdom teeth often become impacted, meaning they are misaligned and lack sufficient room to break through the gum surface. This impaction causes significant discomfort. Additionally, because they are located so far back in the mouth, wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, increasing the risk of infection and decay. Hence, dentists frequently recommend their removal.

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Causing Problems

Regular dental visits often reveal wisdom teeth issues, but symptoms such as jaw pain, swollen or painful gums, or an unusual taste in the back of your mouth warrant a dental checkup. If you experience any of these signs, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine the cause.

Next Steps

At KL Family Dental of Carol Stream, we can assess the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action if necessary. If you have questions about your wisdom teeth or need to schedule an appointment, please contact our office. We’re here to help you maintain optimal oral health.

For more information or to book a consultation, reach out to KL Family Dental of Carol Stream. We’re dedicated to ensuring your smile stays healthy and bright.