Wisdom teeth (scientifically known as third molars) are one of the great “mysteries” of human anatomy. For some people, their eruption is painless and uneventful, while for others it is accompanied by severe pain, swelling, and the need for surgical removal.
One of the most common questions we receive at Symeou Dental Center is:
“Is it guaranteed that I’ll get wisdom teeth?” or “Why did my friend never get them while I’m suffering?”
In this in-depth article, we explore the evolution, genetics, and clinical realities of wisdom teeth, debunking myths and providing clear answers.
What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Do We Have Them?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt in the human mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They’re called wisdom teeth because they appear at an age when a person is thought to have gained “wisdom.”
From an evolutionary perspective, wisdom teeth were essential for our ancestors. Early human diets consisted of hard foods such as raw meat, roots, and nuts, which required heavy chewing and a larger chewing surface. Prehistoric humans also had larger jaws, providing ample space for all 32 teeth.
Over thousands of years, our diet softened and our jaws gradually became smaller. Today, 28 teeth are more than sufficient for proper chewing. As a result, wisdom teeth are now considered vestigial organs, much like the appendix of the mouth.
Do Wisdom Teeth Erupt in Everyone?
The short answer is no. Not everyone develops wisdom teeth, and even if they do, they don’t always erupt into the mouth.
1. Agenesis (When the Teeth Never Form)
A portion of the population (approximately 5% to 37%) is born without even the tooth buds of wisdom teeth in the jawbone. This condition is called hypodontia or third molar agenesis. Scientists consider this a further step in human evolution: as jaws shrink, our DNA gradually “eliminates” teeth that no longer fit.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth (When They Exist but Don’t Appear)
Many patients believe they don’t have wisdom teeth simply because they can’t see them. However, an X-ray often reveals that the teeth are present but impacted, trapped beneath the gums or within the bone. This usually happens due to a lack of space or incorrect angulation.
Types of Impaction
If your wisdom teeth haven’t erupted, they may be positioned in one of the following ways:
- Mesial impaction: The tooth tilts forward, pressing against the adjacent molar
- Horizontal impaction: The tooth lies completely sideways within the bone (the most complex case)
- Vertical impaction: The tooth is upright but lacks space to erupt
- Distal impaction: The tooth tilts toward the back of the mouth
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
Even if you do have wisdom teeth, their presence can be problematic for several reasons:
- Περικρανίτιδα: When a tooth partially erupts, a gum flap forms that traps food and bacteria, leading to painful infections
- Tooth decay & gum disease: Because wisdom teeth are located so far back, proper brushing and flossing are extremely difficult
- Crowding: Pressure from erupting wisdom teeth may push other teeth forward, compromising a straight smile or the results of orthodontic treatment
- Cysts: In rare cases, a cyst may develop around an impacted wisdom tooth, damaging the jawbone or the roots of neighboring teeth
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed?
At Symeou Dental Center, we follow a personalized approach. Not every wisdom tooth needs to be extracted.
We keep wisdom teeth when:
- They are healthy and fully erupted
- They have proper occlusion (they bite correctly with opposing teeth)
- The patient can clean them effectively with brushing and flossing
We recommend extraction when:
- They cause recurrent infections
- They damage the adjacent tooth (the second molar)
- There is insufficient space, threatening overall tooth alignment
- Removal is required as part of an orthodontic treatment plan
The Symeou Dental Center Process: Painless and Digital
The idea of “wisdom tooth removal” causes anxiety for many people. At Symeou Dental Center, we’ve invested in advanced technology and expertise to make the process as comfortable as possible.
1. Three-Dimensional Imaging (CBCT)
We don’t rely solely on standard X-rays. We use Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to visualize the exact position of the tooth in three dimensions. This allows us to accurately assess the distance between the tooth roots and the jaw nerve, minimizing risk.
2. Minimally Traumatic Surgery
We use modern instruments and techniques that reduce tissue trauma, resulting in less swelling and faster recovery.
3. Specialized Team
Our clinicians’ experience ensures that even the most challenging cases (such as horizontally impacted wisdom teeth) are treated safely and efficiently.
After the Extraction: What to Expect
Recovery is just as important as the procedure itself. We provide detailed instructions and ongoing support:
- First 24 hours: Rest, apply cold compresses externally, and eat soft foods
- Avoid smoking: Smoking delays healing and can cause dry socket, a painful condition
- Στοματική υγιεινή: We’ll show you how to keep the area clean without irritating the surgical site
Conclusion: Prevention Is Key
Whether your wisdom teeth haven’t erupted yet or you’re already experiencing discomfort, early diagnosis is essential. Waiting until pain develops often means the infection has progressed, making treatment more complex.
At Symeou Dental Center, your health is our priority. With a simple examination and digital imaging, we can accurately assess what’s happening in your mouth and prevent future complications.
Trust your smile to the experts. Whether it’s routine monitoring or specialized surgical removal, our team is here to provide the highest level of care, with professionalism and genuine compassion.
Book your appointment at Symeou Dental Center today and put your worries about wisdom teeth behind you once and for all.
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