As you grow into your smile, it’s important to keep an eye on how things are progressing. This is especially true during your late teens and into your early twenties, when your last set of molars called your wisdom teeth develop. These teeth are evolutionary holdovers from a time when humans had much larger jaws, and that means that you just might not have room for them. Wisdom teeth can cause real problems for growing smiles, including enamel damage, and for those who’ve just completed orthodontic treatment, they can undo all your hard work.
Here at Sunny Smiles, we understand the value of keeping up with your oral health. People of all ages need to come in for a checkup every six months, and when you’re in your teens, these visits are particularly important to keep an eye on the development of your third set of molars. So, if it’s been a while since your last visit, take the time to talk about your smile.
Wisdom teeth can pose real issues if ignored. Experience advanced imagery and quality care from Sunny Smiles.
Why Do We Have Them If We Don’t Need Them?
One of the first things that patients want to know when talking about their wisdom teeth is the reason for their existence. The answer to that lies in the complex world of evolution, which is a slow and difficult process. Once upon a time, humans primarily consumed raw meat, and in order to do this, we needed strong jaw power. We had wider jaws that allowed for more molars, which could be helpful in chewing tough foods.
But we started to cook our meals, and we no longer had the need for these teeth. Our faces became slimmer, and as that happened, it left less room for the last set of molars. These are your wisdom teeth, and if they develop improperly, they can cause some issues.
Wisdom Teeth Sometimes Need To Go
Since our faces often lack the space necessary for wisdom teeth, when they grow, they can rearrange your smile. For those who have just completed, or are currently in the process of orthodontic treatment, your third molars can shift your alignment, so it’s important to keep an eye on them. Luckily, your checkups are there to do just that.
At your biannual checkup, you will receive a visual examination and any necessary imagery. That means that by keeping to your timeline of treatment, your provider can identify problems before they occur. And if it’s time for wisdom teeth extraction, we’re here for you.
Track Your Progress With Sunny Smiles
When you’re in your teens, it’s not the time to skip your dental checkups. To find out more about your wisdom teeth timeline, call Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX at 915.759.7000 today to schedule an appointment.