Wisdom teeth, the third set of molars at the back of the mouth, resemble the first and second molars but can be slightly smaller. While many individuals undergo wisdom teeth removal, the fundamental question remains: What is the purpose of having wisdom teeth, given the common challenges and issues they often present?
This enigma persists in the corners of our mouths, prompting curiosity about the evolutionary reasons behind the existence of these seemingly troublesome molars.
Evolutionary Purpose for Having Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, the final set of 32 permanent teeth, emerge between ages 17 and 25, earning their name as they appear when individuals are considered "older and wiser."
The arrangement and function of teeth categorize them, with sharper ones at the front for tearing and flatter molars at the back for grinding. Adults possess three sets of molars, with the third set, commonly known as wisdom teeth, emerging last in early adulthood.
Human teeth development involves the initial "baby" teeth, followed by a set of adult teeth. However, only two sets of molars, comprising eight teeth, emerge during the transition to adult teeth. The evolutionary purpose of these molars is often linked to the dietary habits of early human ancestors, adapting to a rougher diet that required more robust chewing.
Examining shared features with primates, such as monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees, provides insights into human evolution. Early human ancestors, like Australopithecus afarensis (nicknamed Lucy's species), had larger jaws and teeth approximately 3 to 4 million years ago. Their powerful jaws and thick enamel on three large molars indicate adaptations to a challenging diet of raw meat and plants.
Changes in diet over millions of years influenced the evolution of human jaws and teeth. The transition from a tougher diet to softer, easily chewable modern food led to smaller jaws and flatter faces.
This shift, driven by factors like agriculture and cooking, diminished the need for large, sharp teeth. As a consequence, the emergence of wisdom teeth, evolved slowly over time, reflects an evolutionary response to changing dietary demands.
READ ALSO: Neanderthal Teeth May Have Grown Faster, Four Months Earlier Than In Modern Humans as Evident in a 120,000-Year Old Milk Tooth
Wisdom Teeth Challenges and Infections
Wisdom teeth, whether visible or impacted, can pose oral health challenges. Impacted wisdom teeth, those that haven't erupted through the gums, can lead to more problems than their visible counterparts.
The challenges linked to wisdom teeth include a higher susceptibility to infection compared to other teeth. Positioned at the back of the mouth, they create difficulty in proper flossing, fostering bacterial growth. Partially impacted wisdom teeth can further complicate matters, as soft tissue may grow over them, resulting in infections like pericoronitis.
Symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection encompass pain, sensitivity, swollen or bleeding gums, fluid or oozing around teeth, bad breath, and jaw-related issues. Seeking professional dental attention is crucial if you experience pain around your back molars.
Treatment involves antibiotics to eliminate the infection, followed by dental procedures or surgery to prevent reinfection. Dental interventions may include cavity fillings to minimize bacterial buildup or, in severe cases, surgery for partial or complete wisdom tooth removal to maintain cleanliness and alleviate discomfort. Consulting with a dentist is essential to explore suitable options based on individual oral health.
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