Wisdom Teeth: Everything You Need to Know
Wisdom teeth are a common topic of discussion when it comes to oral health, yet many people don’t fully understand their purpose, when they appear, or if they even have them. In this blog, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about wisdom teeth, including why they are called wisdom teeth, how many you have, and whether they can grow back.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of your mouth. They are the last teeth to develop and typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties. Historically, these teeth were necessary for our ancestors, who had a rough diet consisting of uncooked meats, roots, and nuts. Over time, as our diets evolved and our jaws became smaller, wisdom teeth became less necessary—often leading to impaction, crowding, and other dental issues.
If you’re experiencing wisdom teeth pain or discomfort, it may be time to consider wisdom teeth removal at Elate Orthodontics in collaboration with Dr. Roberts at Tribute Family Dentistry.
Where Are Wisdom Teeth Located?
Wisdom teeth are found at the very back of your mouth, with two on the upper jaw and two on the lower jaw. Some people have all four, while others may have fewer—or none at all. Their positioning often leads to dental complications, especially if there isn’t enough room for them to grow properly.
Does Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?
No, not everyone has wisdom teeth. While most people develop four wisdom teeth, some individuals may have fewer or none at all. In fact, studies show that up to 35% of people never develop wisdom teeth. This is due to genetic variations, and some experts believe that as human evolution continues, wisdom teeth may disappear entirely.
If you’re unsure about your own wisdom teeth growth, our early orthodontic care for kids can help determine if they are developing properly and whether intervention is needed.
How Many Wisdom Teeth Do You Have?
Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may develop one, two, three, or even extra wisdom teeth, known as supernumerary wisdom teeth. If you’re unsure how many you have, a dental X-ray at Elate Orthodontics can provide a clear picture.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Come In?
Wisdom teeth usually begin to erupt between ages 17 and 25, but this can vary from person to person. Some people may experience early wisdom teeth growth in their teenage years, while others may not see their wisdom teeth until their late twenties.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted (trapped under the gums), they may never fully emerge, leading to pain, swelling, or infections. Learn more about impacted wisdom teeth removal at Elate Orthodontics.
Can Wisdom Teeth Grow Back?
A common question patients ask is, “Do wisdom teeth grow back?” The answer is no—once wisdom teeth are removed, they do not grow back. However, some individuals may have extra molars (supernumerary teeth) that resemble wisdom teeth, which can give the illusion of regrowth.
If you experience pain or swelling after wisdom teeth removal, schedule a follow-up to ensure proper healing and avoid complications such as dry socket.
Why Are They Called Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth earned their name because they appear later in life, when a person is older and theoretically wiser. Unlike baby and permanent teeth that emerge in early childhood, wisdom teeth typically surface in adolescence or early adulthood, giving rise to their unique name.
Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Now that we’ve answered the most common questions about wisdom teeth, you may be wondering whether you need to have them removed. Not everyone requires wisdom teeth extraction, but removal is recommended if you experience:
✅ Pain or swelling in the back of your mouth
✅ Impacted wisdom teeth (trapped beneath the gums)
✅ Crowding or shifting teeth due to lack of space
✅ Infections or difficulty cleaning the area
If you’re experiencing discomfort or unsure about your wisdom teeth, schedule a consultation at Elate Orthodontics today! Our team, alongside Dr. Roberts, provides safe and effective wisdom teeth removal at our Frisco, The Colony, and Prosper locations.
📞 Call us at 972.538.4343 to book an appointment!