You watched high school peers get their wisdom teeth extracted and post mildly entertaining videos about their reaction to the anesthetic. After yours didn’t show for a year or two, a quick internet search revealed that third molars might not grow in until you’re 21. So you waited, mildly concerned that you’d wake up to find a painful surprise towards the back of your mouth any day now.
But you’ve past the 21-year mark, and your wisdom teeth are still nowhere to be found – or felt, for that matter. Is that a bad sign? Keep reading – wisdom tooth development might be more nuanced than you thought!
You Might Not Have Wisdom Teeth – And That’s Okay!
If you’ve yet to see late-blooming pearly whites or developed an ache in your jaw, it’s possible you simply don’t have wisdom teeth. Professionals aren’t quite sure what causes – or doesn’t cause – wisdom tooth growth in the first place, but it seems that not having them doesn’t negatively affect your oral health. So there’s a chance you’re safe from embarrassing anesthetic antics!
Or They’re Hiding Underneath Your Gumline
Unfortunately, no pain and no visual sightings don’t necessarily equal no wisdom teeth. Sometimes teeth can get trapped underneath the gumline, either because they simply can’t sprout properly, or an existing tooth is blocking their exit. Most of the time this hurts, but not all of the time. Since trapped (or “impacted”) teeth can invite infection or create cysts, you might want to check your calendar and schedule a dental appointment.
When Should I See My Dentist About My Wisdom Teeth?
As soon as possible. Your dentist can take accurate X-rays of your mouth and jaw to determine whether or not your wisdom teeth are M.I.A. or need an S.O.S. If it turns out that you don’t have any third molars to speak of, congratulations! If they’re impacted, however, it’s best to take care of the problem sooner than later.
Not everyone realizes that wisdom teeth don’t always need to be extracted. Depending on how well they’re developing and how well your other pearly whites are responding, it could be just fine and dandy to let them emerge on their own. You can rest assured, though, that when extractions are necessary, your dentist works diligently to ensure your comfort during treatment. Don’t hesitate to give them a call and get to the bottom of your missing wisdom teeth!
About the Dentist
Dr. Jay Lopez earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Colorado Health Science Center School of Dentistry and continues to pursue ongoing education so he can treat his patients with the latest and greatest dental technologies. He has a multitude of experience over multiple different types of dentistry, enabling him to provide quality comprehensive services. If your wisdom teeth seem to be missing, Dr. Lopez will get to the bottom of it and keep you well-informed! To contact his office, call 520-886-8090.
