Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 21, increasing the total number of permanent teeth from 28 to as many as 32. While most adults an estimated 65 to 95 percent develop one to four wisdom teeth, their purpose is not fully understood. Many experts believe they were beneficial to early humans, whose diets consisted of tougher foods and whose oral hygiene practices were far less advanced. As a result, tooth loss occurred more frequently, and an additional set of molars would have supported chewing and overall survival.