A lot would wonder if “wisdom” is associated to the third molars that grow last in the human teeth cycle. Or why else should a teeth be considered wise if it has no association with the human reasoning? But believe me, wisdom teeth has practically nothing to do with wisdom. It rather got that nickname from the fact that it is the only set of teeth that erupt when a human is considered to be wise enough; rather than during childhood. Though teenagers of about 16 years of age have recorded situations of wisdom teeth, the age these most commonly impacted teeth in the human mouth eject, is between 17 – 25 years of age.

Anthropologists have said that wisdom teeth used to be necessary for the past generations; as they used to feed on solid, rough food – leaves, nuts, meat e.t.c. making the third molars highly required for the chewing of such food, considered more of an “evolutionary answer” in their words. However, the modern age of the present generation with diets consisting of softer food, the wisdom teeth has been claimed to be almost unnecessary.

Wisdom teeth doesn’t always grow completely which could result in decay or infection as food may get stuck in the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. Sometimes, the teeth gets tucked away rather than erupting, which may result in displacement of permanent teeth and other oral problems. Though, this doesn’t occur in all humans as some develop the third molar teeth properly with normal functions occurring, the American Association of oral and mexillofacial Surgeons stated that about 85% of the wisdom teeth has to be removed; the sooner the better. In fact, according to Rachele cooper, a scienceline staff member, the best time to get the third molars removed is the period of 15 – 18 years of age when only two-third of the roots of the molars are formed.

In all, studies have proven that the M3 are the “vestigial” third molars that helped our ancestors grind plant fibres and so on. Their skulls are considered larger than that of the present generation, giving them more room for proper formulation of the teeth. As the present generation have smaller skulls, and consume less rough food, the wisdom teeth may have to be considered fit for removal. Whatever your decision maybe; to get the M3 removed or keep them in place, ensure proper oral hygiene with adequate preference given to each quadrants of your dentition.

Aisha Harun (Nana bee)
July, 2016

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