A long, long, long time ago people ate things like roots, nuts and tough meats as daily staples. Then we needed our back teeth more than ever to be able to chew these primitive foods. Switch to modern day - with the invention of eating utensils and the evolution of our dietary habits e.g., improved cooking methods, softer foods, etc. we no longer need the chewing power that the extra set of molars, now referred to as “wisdom teeth” provided. In fact, some people never get these teeth and they may be the lucky ones.

Wisdom teeth are infamous for causing trouble. One reason is that they are the very last to erupt so that by the time they do there may not be enough room left for them, the other teeth may block them from erupting. Or in some cases, a wisdom tooth may make it partially through the gum tissue creating a target for infection from food particles that could become lodged there.

There are cases when wisdom teeth erupt with no problem and can function successfully for some time but the odds are against it. Professional studies have indicated that a high percentage of those of us who do get our wisdom teeth will at some point see the need to have them removed. Most dentists recommend that this be done sooner rather than later in life.

Talk to the doctors at Rippe Dental Associates more about the pros and cons of wisdom teeth removal. Call today @ 303-779-9876.