If your child is inching into their teenage years, you may be expecting their wisdom teeth to start surfacing soon. This is often accompanied by swelling, discomfort, and crowding. However, it is possible your child may not have wisdom teeth! Read on to learn if it is normal for children to not have any.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt, typically between the ages of 16 and 25. They are located towards the very back of the mouth, and there can be up to four of them. Over time, it is becoming apparent that people are no longer growing these teeth! In fact, a research article published in Biology in 2021 states that approximately 20 percent of the general population is missing their third molars entirely!
What Could Cause Wisdom Teeth to Not Develop?
There are two main reasons why your child may not develop wisdom teeth:
Genetics
Genetics can play a large role in whether or not your child will have wisdom teeth. In fact, genes can determine a number of factors about your child’s smile, including how many teeth they have, the size and shape of those teeth, jaw growth, and when their teeth erupt. If one or both parents have never developed wisdom teeth, there is a greater chance that their child will not have third molars either.
Evolution
Another reason why more people may not be growing wisdom teeth is due to human evolution. Our Paleolithic ancestors needed their third molars to effectively chew and digest raw foods like tough meats, roots, plants, and nuts. Their larger jaws and additional molars helped make this possible. However, as our diets have evolved, humans no longer need the help that wisdom teeth offer. Over the centuries, our jaw sizes have become gradually smaller, and there is less of a need for additional molars.
How Can You Tell if Your Child Will Have Wisdom Teeth?
If you bring your child to their pediatric dental office every six months, they will likely receive routine X-rays. These diagnostic images will allow their dentist to see what is happening below their gumline, such as identifying the location, number, and size of their wisdom teeth. Over time, they will track your child’s oral development and guide you if any intervention is recommended.
About the Author
Dr. Vani Takiar is a skilled Board-Certified pediatric dentist with specialty experience and training in treating developing smiles. She sees patients ranging from infancy up to 18 years old, allowing her to track your child’s oral development as they grow. Our trusted and large referral network allows the Tooth Clues team to connect you with local oral surgeons for wisdom tooth extraction when necessary. For questions or to schedule an examination, visit Tooth Clues’ website or call 571-799-0559.