Wondering why do we grow wisdom teeth? These are the third molars that usually appear in the late teens to early 20s. This short guide explains what wisdom teeth are, why humans have them, when they cause problems, how surgeons evaluate them, and simple treatment options so you can decide the next steps.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars at the very back of the mouth. Most people get them between ages 17 and 25. They have the same basic parts as other teeth: a crown, root(s), and enamel. Some people have four, some have fewer, and a few never develop them at all.
Why do we grow wisdom teeth? (The science explained)
Evolution helps answer why do we grow wisdom teeth. Early humans ate tough, raw foods that wore down teeth faster and needed extra molars for grinding. Ancestral jaws were larger to fit more teeth. Modern diets are softer and jaws tend to be smaller, so wisdom teeth often have no room and are less useful.
Genetics also plays a role. Jaw size, tooth size, and timing of tooth development differ between people. That explains why some get trouble-free wisdom teeth and others have impacted or missing third molars.
When wisdom teeth cause problems
Impaction and pain
An impacted tooth is blocked by bone or other teeth. It can cause pressure, pain, and swelling when it tries to erupt.
Infection and pericoronitis
When a wisdom tooth only partially breaks the gum, food and bacteria can get trapped. This leads to repeated infections called pericoronitis, with pain, bad taste, and swollen gums.
Crowding, decay, and damage to nearby teeth
Wisdom teeth can push on nearby molars, increase crowding, and are harder to clean. That raises the risk of decay and damage to adjacent teeth.
How wisdom teeth are evaluated
Evaluation starts with a clinical exam and often a panoramic X-ray or cone beam CT for 3D views. Imaging shows tooth angle, root shape, and how close roots are to nerves. Surgeons consider current symptoms, likely future problems, your age, and overall health when recommending action.
Treatment options for wisdom teeth
Watchful waiting vs. proactive removal
Monitoring is fine for healthy, well-positioned wisdom teeth. Extraction is recommended for pain, infection, damage to other teeth, or high risk of future problems.
What to expect during extraction
Extractions are usually outpatient. Options include local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia depending on complexity and patient preference. Simple cases take minutes; surgical removals can take longer.
Pain control and recovery
Most people return to normal activity in a few days. Cold packs, rest, soft foods, and prescription or over-the-counter pain meds help. Many practices offer opioid-free options like EXPAREL® for longer local pain control.
When to see an oral surgeon
See an oral surgeon for severe pain, swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, repeated infections, numbness, or problems that don’t improve. Complex root shapes, nerve proximity, or prior infection are best handled by a specialist.
Why choose Midwest Oral Surgery & Dental Implants for wisdom tooth care
Midwest Oral Surgery & Dental Implants in Omaha offers board-certified surgeons, hospital privileges, and advanced imaging like cone beam CT. Dr. John Wewel and Dr. Jerome Wees bring decades of surgical experience and a focus on comfort, safety, and predictable results.
Quick takeaways and next steps
We grow wisdom teeth because of our evolutionary past and genetic variation. If they’re pain-free and well positioned, monitoring can be safe. If they cause pain, infection, or damage, see an oral surgeon. Schedule an evaluation with Midwest Oral Surgery & Dental Implants if you have symptoms or concerns.