Can Wisdom Teeth Grow Back? A Comprehensive Guide for Dubai Residents
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the teeth that typically emerge during early adulthood, located at the back of the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may have fewer or even none at all. Due to the lack of space in the jaw, wisdom teeth often become impacted, causing discomfort and providing a breeding ground for bacteria.
It is common for individuals to have their wisdom teeth removed, usually in their late teens or early twenties. This article will address whether wisdom teeth can grow back after removal and explore the reasons for wisdom tooth extraction.
Do Wisdom Teeth Grow Back After Removal?
No, wisdom teeth, like all teeth, do not grow back after removal. However, it is possible to have more than four wisdom teeth, known as supernumerary teeth. These extra teeth can emerge anywhere in the mouth, including behind the second molars (where wisdom teeth typically reside). The appearance of these teeth after removal might create the impression of regrowth.
Another possibility is the development of bone spurs. These are small bits of bone that can grow in the spaces where wisdom teeth were removed. While generally not a cause for concern, bone spurs can be removed if they cause pain.
Supernumerary teeth are rare, occurring in approximately 2 to 3% of people, while bone spurs are even rarer, found in less than 1% of cases.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, like other molars, help us chew food, particularly tough or fibrous foods such as certain cuts of meat, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and roots. However, when there is insufficient space for wisdom teeth to erupt, they cannot fully serve this purpose.
The rise of agriculture and the Industrial Revolution has made impacted wisdom teeth more common. Some people still have more space for their wisdom teeth than others due to factors such as softer foods, modern food processing, vitamin deficiencies (especially K2), and genetics.
Why are Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Since our jaws often lack space for wisdom teeth, they can become impacted and put individuals at risk for tooth decay (cavities), operculitis (inflammation of the gum flap above a partially impacted wisdom tooth), and chronic pain and discomfort.
Wisdom teeth are frequently removed as a precaution before they cause any problems. Recovery can be more challenging if wisdom teeth are removed later in life.
Some experts recommend more conservative treatments if wisdom teeth are not causing pain and there is enough room in the jaw to accommodate them. One such treatment option is removing the surrounding gum flap (operculum).
Summary
Although wisdom teeth won't grow back after removal, it is possible to have more than four wisdom teeth or develop a bone spur following extraction. Wisdom teeth are often extracted due to the lack of space in our jaws, leading to impaction, and potential complications.
If you have concerns about wisdom teeth, possible extra teeth, or bone spurs, consult your dentist.