For many, the mere mention of "wisdom teeth" conjures up memories of sore jaws, throbbing pain, and soft food diets. But what's the real deal behind these notoriously late-blooming teeth, and why do they cause so much trouble?
Let’s dive into the science behind the pain and unravel the mystery of wisdom teeth.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop and appear in the mouth. According to Cleveland Clinic, wisdom teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 to 25, a time traditionally associated with the onset of maturity and the attainment of "wisdom" — hence the name.
For our ancestors, wisdom teeth were essential. With coarse diets of raw plant material and meat, teeth would often wear down or fall out, so these additional molars at the back of the mouth helped spread the load when it comes to grinding down food.
