Short Stuff: Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are evolutionary remnants that once served a functional purpose for ancestors with larger jaws who consumed raw, tough foods. Modern human diets, which consist of softer, processed foods, have led to smaller jaw structures, often leaving insufficient space for these teeth to emerge properly. This anatomical discrepancy frequently causes impaction, a primary driver for surgical extraction. However, prophylactic removal remains a subject of debate, as healthy, properly aligned wisdom teeth can contribute to jaw stability and continuous bone growth. Many dental professionals now advocate for a "wait-and-see" approach rather than automatic extraction, noting that unnecessary surgery carries risks of nerve damage and tissue trauma. Ultimately, the term "wisdom teeth" reflects the late age at which they typically erupt, a naming convention dating back to ancient Greek terminology.