New Haven Dental Group is a 42 North Dental Care, PLLC practice and is owned and operated by dentists Dr. Samuel Shames, DDM. and Dr. Ronald Weissman, DDM. Gentle Dental is supported by 42 North Dental, LLC, a dental support organization that provides non-clinical administrative and business support services to the practice. 42 North Dental, LLC does not own or operate the dental practice or employ dentists to provide dental services. Find more information about 42 North Dental, LLC and the dental practices it supports at 42northdental.com.
Every year, countless wisdom tooth extraction procedures are performed around the world. In fact, the procedure is almost regarded as a rite of passage for adolescents and young adults. Since these teeth, the third molars, are so often removed, the question naturally arises, “Why do we even have wisdom teeth in the first place?” The answer relates to the lifestyle of ancient human ancestors. This blog post delves into that fascinating history.
The Reason behind Wisdom Teeth
Most experts in the scientific community agree that the reason for the existence of wisdom teeth has to do with the diet of ancient human ancestors. Many generations ago, humans consumed a lot of seeds, nuts, raw veggies, and tough meats. They also did not have modern eating utensils, which meant they had to bite directly into their food without cutting it first. Understandably, their dietary habits took a heavy toll on their teeth.
By the time they reached their late teens or early 20s, they may have needed a third set of molars to equip them to continue eating their rough diet. Human physiology accommodated that need by providing the wisdom teeth.
Advancements in Human Nutrition
As time marched forward, the human diet underwent drastic changes. New ways of preparing and processing foods were discovered, and eating utensils like knives and forks became commonplace. These advancements greatly reduced the amount of wear and tear on teeth. Eventually, humanity progressed to the point where the wisdom teeth became vestigial (no longer necessary for survival).
Wisdom Teeth in Modern Times
Human physiology has continued to undergo minor changes in order to adapt to changing conditions. In fact, among modern people, many individuals have a mouth that is too small to even accommodate their wisdom teeth. Unfortunately, that does not automatically mean that they do not receive wisdom teeth. Their third molars may develop anyway, leading to a number of oral health complications. For example, wisdom teeth can increase the risk of infections, cysts, and tumors. Therefore, dentists regularly recommend that wisdom teeth be extracted.
Future generations might never develop wisdom teeth. For now, though, they are still a common but unnecessary part of human anatomy.
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group is proud to provide a broad range of oral health services to our community, including wisdom tooth removal. We always strive to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. If you have questions or concerns about the state of your third molars, we would be happy to examine your mouth and recommend a treatment plan. Get in touch with us at 203-712-4068.