dental hygiene
Most people have up to four wisdom teeth. One is located at the back of each corner of the mouth behind the molars. These teeth usually come in during the teens or early twenties although the timing can vary a lot.
Not everyone has four. Some people have less. Some people don’t have any all. A few people even have than four wisdom teeth but that is rare.
Why Do We Have Four Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the set of molars. Our ancestors had jaws and needed more teeth for chewing so these extra molars had a purpose. Todays jaws are smaller which can cause problems.
There is not always space at the back of the mouth. A wisdom tooth can stay trapped under the gum. Grow in a strange direction instead of coming through normally.
Can You Have One or Two?
Yes. You can have one or two wisdom teeth and that is completely normal. Your body does not follow a rule that says all four must come through at the time.
You can also have wisdom teeth that formed but never came through the gum. So if you can’t see one in your mouth that does not mean you don’t have it.
• No wisdom teeth all. Some people never develop them. That is a good thing.
• One or two is completely normal especially if the others never formed.
• Three wisdom teeth is unusual. Possible.
• Four is the number, with one in each back corner when all are present.
Can You Have Than Four Wisdom Teeth?
This is where things get interesting. Rarely someone grows extra teeth near the wisdom tooth area. These are called teeth. Most people never deal with this.
An X-ray is usually how a dentist finds a tooth especially if it is, under the gum and hasn’t come through. You might not feel anything
Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
No. Having a wisdom tooth does not always mean it needs to be taken out.
If the tooth is healthy in the position and easy to clean a dentist can just watch it. That is a choice. Removing a tooth just because it is a wisdom tooth is not always needed.
When Does a Wisdom Tooth Cause a Problem?
Issues usually begin when there is not room for the tooth to come through properly. Food and germs can build up around a tooth that partly comes through making it hard to clean. The gum can then become painful or swollen.
A wisdom tooth can also push against the tooth in front of it if it is growing in the direction. In some cases it stays completely hidden under the gum.
Disclaimer
The information shared in our articles is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every smile is unique, and only a qualified dental professional can assess your individual oral health needs. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist.
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