Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are a common dental topic, often sparking questions about their development and whether their growth continues throughout life. This article explores how wisdom teeth develop and clarifies their growth patterns.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars located at the very back of the mouth, with most individuals having four—one in each corner of the jaw. They are called “wisdom teeth” because they usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25, a time when individuals are considered to be maturing. This late emergence contrasts with other permanent teeth, which typically erupt during childhood and adolescence.
The presence of wisdom teeth is a remnant of human evolutionary history. Our ancestors, who consumed a diet of raw plants, tough meats, and nuts, required larger jaws and additional molars for efficient chewing and digestion. Over time, as human diets shifted to softer, cooked foods, jaw sizes gradually became smaller. This evolutionary change often leaves insufficient space in modern mouths for wisdom teeth to emerge without issues.
The Growth Trajectory of Wisdom Teeth
While wisdom teeth develop within the jawbone during adolescence, their eruption is a specific, finite process, not continuous growth throughout a person’s life. Once they begin to break through the gums, the full eruption can take several months, or even years, but it eventually concludes. What might be perceived as ongoing “growth” is often related to their eruption process or, more commonly, impaction.
Impaction occurs when a wisdom tooth is blocked from fully emerging due to insufficient space or an improper angle of growth. There are various types of impaction, including mesial (angled toward the front of the mouth), distal (angled toward the back), vertical (straight but trapped), and horizontal (lying completely on its side). A tooth can be fully impacted, remaining completely hidden under the gums and bone, or partially impacted, where only a portion of it has broken through.
Potential Issues From Wisdom Teeth
Problematic wisdom teeth, especially those that are impacted or partially erupted, can lead to a range of oral health complications. A common issue is pain and discomfort, which can radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck.
Infection is another frequent problem, often stemming from pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue around a partially erupted wisdom tooth. Food particles and bacteria can get trapped under the gum flap, creating a breeding ground for infection, which may manifest as swelling, bad breath, or an unpleasant taste. Impacted wisdom teeth can also increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, as they are difficult to clean effectively. They can damage adjacent teeth, potentially leading to crowding or misalignment. Cysts can also form around an impacted wisdom tooth within the jawbone, damaging the jawbone, teeth, and nerves.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Given potential complications, consulting a dentist is sensible if concerns arise regarding wisdom teeth. Regular dental check-ups, often including X-rays, allow dentists to monitor wisdom teeth development and position, identifying potential impaction or other issues early.
If wisdom teeth cause problems, or are likely to, a dentist may recommend interventions ranging from monitoring and pain management to extraction for severe issues. Extraction is often suggested for impacted teeth causing pain, infection, or damage to other teeth, or to prevent future complications. Early removal, particularly in late teens or early twenties, can simplify the procedure and aid recovery.