Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the human mouth. Typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25, these teeth are located at the very back of the mouth, one in each corner. Despite being the subject of many dental discussions and often the cause of discomfort, not everyone is familiar with what wisdom teeth actually look like. In this article, we will explore the physical characteristics of wisdom teeth, their development stages, and common issues associated with their appearance.
Anatomy And Structure of Wisdom Teeth
Position and Size
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located in the posterior region of the oral cavity. They are positioned behind the second molars and are the last teeth to erupt in the dental arch. Due to their location, they can be challenging to see without the help of dental tools or X-rays.
In terms of size, wisdom teeth are typically similar to other molars, characterized by a broad and flat surface with ridges designed for grinding food. However, their exact size can vary from person to person. Some wisdom teeth may be smaller or even abnormally shaped compared to other molars.
SEE ALSO: Is Tooth Sensitivity Normal After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Visible Parts: Crown and Roots
The crown is the visible part of the tooth above the gum line, while the roots extend below the gum into the jawbone, anchoring the tooth in place. The crown of a wisdom tooth usually resembles that of the other molars, with a somewhat irregular, bumpy surface that aids in the grinding process during chewing.
The roots of wisdom teeth, however, can be quite variable. Some wisdom teeth may have fused roots, meaning they are joined together, while others may have separate, distinct roots. The number of roots can also differ; typically, wisdom teeth have two to three roots, but this number can vary, and some may have more.
Development Stages of Wisdom Teeth
Early Development
Wisdom teeth begin to form in the jawbone during the early teenage years. Initially, they are not visible as they are completely encased in the bone and gum tissue. During this stage, they resemble other developing teeth, with the crown forming first, followed by the roots.
Eruption Phase
As wisdom teeth start to erupt, they push through the gum tissue and become visible in the mouth. This process can cause discomfort and is often referred to as “teething.” During the eruption phase, the tips of the crowns are the first to break through the gums. These tips are typically pointed and can be felt with the tongue or seen if the gums are pulled back.
Fully Erupted Wisdom Teeth
Once fully erupted, wisdom teeth look like regular molars but are positioned at the back of the mouth. They have a broad, flat surface with ridges and grooves that aid in chewing. The full crown is visible above the gum line, while the roots remain embedded in the jawbone. The shape and size of fully erupted wisdom teeth can vary widely, with some appearing quite similar to other molars and others being more irregular or smaller in size.
Variations And Anomalies
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not fully erupt into the mouth. This can occur if there is insufficient space in the jaw or if the teeth grow at an angle. Impacted wisdom teeth can be partially or completely buried in the gum and bone, making them difficult to see. Partially impacted wisdom teeth may have only the tip of the crown visible, while completely impacted teeth may not be visible at all.
Angulation and Positioning
Wisdom teeth can emerge at various angles, including horizontally, which can affect their appearance. A horizontally impacted wisdom tooth, for example, may grow sideways and press against the neighboring molar. This angulation can lead to an unusual appearance where only a part of the tooth is visible or the tooth appears skewed.
Supernumerary Wisdom Teeth
In rare cases, individuals may develop more than the typical four wisdom teeth. These extra teeth are known as supernumerary teeth and can also vary in appearance. They may be smaller or shaped differently than the standard set of wisdom teeth.
Common Issues And Implications
Oral Health Problems
Wisdom teeth can cause various oral health issues due to their location and the difficulty in cleaning them properly. These problems include:
Cavities and Decay: Due to their position at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are harder to clean, making them more susceptible to cavities and decay.
Gum Disease: The difficulty in maintaining hygiene around wisdom teeth can also lead to gum disease, characterized by inflammation, swelling, and infection of the gums.
Cysts and Tumors: Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to the development of cysts or, in rare cases, tumors within the jawbone.
Signs and Symptoms
Problems with wisdom teeth often manifest through various symptoms, including:
Pain and Discomfort: As wisdom teeth erupt, they can cause pain in the surrounding gums and jaw.
Swelling and Redness: The gums around erupting wisdom teeth may become swollen and red, indicating inflammation or infection.
Bad Breath and Unpleasant Taste: Poor hygiene around wisdom teeth can lead to bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth due to bacterial buildup.
Treatment Options
Treatment for wisdom teeth issues varies depending on the specific problem. Common treatments include:
Monitoring: If wisdom teeth are not causing any problems, they may be monitored regularly to ensure they remain healthy.
Extraction: Problematic wisdom teeth, especially those that are impacted or causing significant pain, may need to be extracted. This procedure is often performed by an oral surgeon.
Medications: Pain relief and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage symptoms and treat infections.
Post-Extraction Care
After the extraction of wisdom teeth, proper care is crucial to ensure healing and prevent complications. This includes:
Pain Management: Pain relievers and ice packs can help manage discomfort after extraction.
Oral Hygiene: Maintaining oral hygiene by gently rinsing with salt water and avoiding vigorous brushing near the extraction site.
Diet: Eating soft foods and avoiding hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that can irritate the extraction site.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth, despite their often troublesome nature, are fascinating components of our dental anatomy. Their appearance, while similar to other molars, can vary greatly in terms of size, shape, and positioning. Understanding what wisdom teeth look like and the common issues associated with them can help individuals better manage their oral health.
Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene are essential to monitor the development and health of wisdom teeth, ensuring they do not lead to more significant problems in the future.