### Why Do Humans Still Have Wisdom Teeth? Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that most people get between the ages of 17 and 21. They were essential for our ancestors who had a diet consisting of roots, leaves, meat, and nuts. These foods required more chewing power, which made the extra set of molars useful. However, as human diets have evolved, the need for wisdom teeth has diminished. Today, we cook food to soften it and use utensils to cut and crush it, reducing the need for these extra molars. Over time, human jaws have also become smaller, partly due to the increase in brain size, leaving less room for wisdom teeth. Despite this evolutionary change, many people still develop wisdom teeth. These teeth can cause various oral health problems because they often don't fit well in the modern human jaw. They can become impacted, meaning they don't fully emerge through the gums, which can lead to infections and other issues. Common problems associated with wisdom teeth include: - **Infections**: Due to their position at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are hard to clean, making them more susceptible to infections. - **Crowding**: As they emerge, wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment. - **Impaction**: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create spaces where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections like pericoronitis. If you experience pain around your back molars, it's essential to see a dentist. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and position of the wisdom teeth. Dentists may prescribe antibiotics to clear up infections and then recommend either repairing the tooth or removing it to prevent future issues. Many dentists suggest removing wisdom teeth as a preventive measure, even if they're not currently causing problems. This is especially common before orthodontic treatments like braces to ensure that emerging wisdom teeth don't undo the work of aligning your teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is generally easier and recovery is quicker for younger people, so it's often recommended to evaluate teenagers for this surgery. If you decide to keep your wisdom teeth, regular monitoring by a dentist is crucial to catch any potential problems early. Post-surgery care is vital to avoid infections. Follow your dentist's instructions, which may include salt water rinses and avoiding certain foods. Recovery usually takes a few days, but some discomfort can last up to a week. Consult your dentist about safe pain relief options. Removing wisdom teeth can be uncomfortable, but it often prevents more severe dental issues in the future.