There are a few theories out there about why some people get third molars, also called wisdom teeth, which will usually appear in a person’s late teens or early to mid-20s. One of the more recent theories, according to Discover Magazine, is that humans are eating softer foods in modern times, and this has made the jawbone shorter (due to less stimulation) whereas the wisdom teeth used to fill that space.
Now, as you might know, if you need your wisdom teeth extracted, it usually means that there’s not much room anymore for these extra molars, and they can become impacted and painful. Luckily, dentists have long since practiced how to get them out with minimal damage, although you’re still going to need some recovery tips. We’ve pulled some important facts for you to help with your wisdom teeth removal recovery…
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
As WebMD notes, wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that grow in the back of your mouth, and they usually arrive between the ages of 17 to 25. A dentist will likely spot them emerging by way of a routine X-ray, and will opt to remove them if they’re growing in on an angle or they’re affecting other teeth or your gums.
Meanwhile, Healthline explains that not everyone will get wisdom teeth, and might think there’s something wrong due to their absence. But the truth is, up to 37-percent of people will be missing at least one of their third molars, which may come down to genetics — if your parents don’t have wisdom teeth, then you might never get them either.