You’ve probably heard about it through friends and siblings – the week of eating ice cream and Jell-O, the swollen and puffy cheeks, the risk of dry socket. But what’s the story on wisdom teeth, and why do so many people have them taken out? Many scientists now believe that wisdom teeth are vestigial – meaning that they used to have a function but no longer do. In earlier times, wisdom teeth might have been very necessary, as other teeth fell out or wore down. But now, since we tend to take better care of our teeth and have smaller jaws altogether, there’s really no need or room for extra molars. And the problems that can arise from keeping wisdom teeth often outweigh the risks of surgery.

So what can you do if your dentist says your wisdom teeth will be coming in soon? It’s always a good idea to get a second opinion, and to fully investigate your options. But it isn’t necessarily the end of the world if you do need surgery. Imagine the aftermath of getting your wisdom teeth out: eating ice cream, watching movies, and taking a week or so off from your normal schedule. It might seem more pleasant than you would think! After all, with the expertise of an oral surgeon and modern painkillers, most teens who have their wisdom teeth out don’t have too much to worry about. Of course any surgery carries risks, but we tend to think of dental surgeries as being more routine.

The other side, of course, is that many people live without any problems caused by their wisdom teeth. And some doctors are even discussing the possibility that wisdom teeth extractions are over-performed – meaning that maybe they aren’t always necessary, but are recommended by doctors and surgeons anyway.

Get the info you need before you decide what to do with your wisdom teeth. It’s important to be informed! Check out “Defined” and “Symptoms” for more facts on our extra molars, and then read “Treatments” to help yourself decide on what’s best for your teeth!