For many, the mere mention of ‘wisdom teeth’ conjures up memories of sore jaws, severe pain and bland food diets. But what’s the real deal behind those notorious late blooming teeth and why are they causing such a big problem?
Let’s dive into the science behind pain and unravel the mystery of wisdom teeth.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth, known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop and appear in the mouth. According to the Cleveland Clinic, Wisdom teeth usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25a time traditionally associated with the onset of maturity and the acquisition of “wisdom” — hence the name.
For our ancestors, wisdom teeth were essential. With coarse diets of raw plant material and meat, teeth often wore down or fell out, so these extra molars at the back of the mouth helped spread the load when it came to grinding up food.
But as human diets and lifestyles evolved, so did our jaws. Over time, with the advent of cooking and food processing, our jaws have become smaller. Consequently, for many modern people, there simply isn’t enough room in our mouths for wisdom teeth to grow properly, which can lead to major problems.
Read more: Why do people have wisdom teeth that need to be removed?
Why do wisdom teeth hurt?
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth can be a source of pain and discomfort:
Impact
Often, there is not enough space for the wisdom teeth to grow properly. When this happens, they may become trapped or “are affected”, cannot fully break through the gums. This can cause severe pain and tenderness.
Infection and inflammation
As the wisdom teeth struggle to break through the gums, they can create a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria. What is called pericoronitis, can lead to infections, swelling and gum disease, resulting in significant pain.
Crowding
If a wisdom tooth manages to break, it can put pressure on neighboring teeth, leading to aches and pains that radiate throughout the jaw, as well as possible alignment problems.
Cysts
In some cases, a sac next to the wisdom tooth can fill with fluid, forming a cyst. This can damage bones, teeth and gums and can even harden into a tumor if left untreated.
If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, be sure to seek the advice of a certified medical professional.
Read more: Your life in a tooth — What our teeth say about our health
What causes wisdom teeth to grow?
Like all other teeth, wisdom teeth are part of our evolutionary heritage. Our different types of teeth – incisors, canines, premolars and molars – have specific schedules and growth triggers.
Genetics
If your parents had wisdom teeth, it’s possible (though not certain) that you will too. Some populations or families may not develop all four wisdom teeth or none at all.
Hormonal Changes
The surge of hormones during the last years of puberty can stimulate the growth and emergence of wisdom teeth.
Evolutionary Remnant
Early human diets required more grinding during chewing, thus the need for an extra set of molars. Although wisdom teeth are less useful today, they still grow because the genetic instructions for their growth remain embedded in our DNA.
Read more: Human evolution is not over yet
How to stop wisdom teeth pain
If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, it is essential to consult a dentist. They can give you a clear picture of what is going on and suggest the best course of action. However, here are some general ones temporary remedies and home remedies for wisdom teeth pain:
Painkillers without a prescription
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with wisdom teeth.
Oral Gels
Over-the-counter oral gels serve as topical pain relievers that can temporarily numb the area, providing relief from persistent wisdom teeth pain.
Rinse with sea water
Gargling with warm salt water several times a day can reduce inflammation and soothe pain associated with wisdom teeth, as well as help prevent infection.
Cold Compress
Applying a cold pack to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling and numb the pain associated with wisdom teeth.
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If the pain persists or if you suspect an infection, it is necessary to visit a dentist. They can give you personalized advice and prescribe stronger painkillers or antibiotics. In many cases, the best solution may be to visit a dentist or oral surgeon the surgeon removes the problem wisdom tooth or teeth completely.
Wisdom teeth, while an exciting evolutionary advantage, can often be more trouble than they’re worth. If you are experiencing pain or suspect problems with your wisdom teeth, it is important to see a dentist. Remember, as with almost all health issues, early intervention can prevent more serious pain down the road.
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