Short answer: does everyone get their wisdom teeth? No. Some people develop third molars (wisdom teeth) and others never do. This post explains how wisdom teeth form, when they can cause trouble, how providers evaluate them, and what to expect if removal is recommended. By the end you’ll have clear next steps whether you’re worried about symptoms or just curious.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the very back of the mouth. They usually try to come in during the late teens to mid‑20s. Long ago, these teeth helped our ancestors chew tough, raw foods. Today, smaller jaws and different diets mean wisdom teeth often don’t fit well and can cause problems.
Does everyone get their wisdom teeth?
How common is missing wisdom teeth (agenesis)?
Not everyone develops all four wisdom teeth. Many people never grow one or more third molars. Estimates vary by population, but it’s common for people to lack at least one wisdom tooth. When a tooth never forms, dentists call that agenesis.
Genetics, jaw size, and variation
- Heredity: missing third molars often run in families.
- Jaw size: smaller jaws leave no room for extra molars.
- Variation: some populations have higher rates of agenesis than others.
When there’s a question, a panoramic X‑ray or CBCT scan will show if a wisdom tooth is present, developing, or absent.
When do wisdom teeth cause problems?
Wisdom teeth can be trouble when they don’t fit or don’t erupt fully. Common issues include:
- Impaction — trapped under gum or bone
- Infection (pericoronitis) — swollen, painful gum tissue
- Damage to neighboring teeth or roots
- Cysts near an impacted tooth
- Crowding or shifting of other teeth
- Decay in hard‑to‑clean areas
Symptoms that often mean a problem: persistent pain, swelling, bad taste or odor, trouble opening the mouth, or recurring infections near the back teeth.
How dentists and surgeons evaluate wisdom teeth
Evaluation starts with a clinical exam and review of symptoms. Imaging is key:
- Panoramic X‑ray shows position and development of all wisdom teeth.
- CBCT (3D) scans are used when roots, nerve position, or bone detail must be seen.
Age, symptoms, and imaging findings guide the recommendation: remove now, watch and wait, or monitor with regular checkups.
What to expect if you need a wisdom tooth removal
Procedure overview
Most wisdom tooth removals are outpatient procedures. Steps usually include:
- Review health history and choose an anesthesia option (local, nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation).
- Administer anesthesia and remove the tooth — a simple extraction for erupted teeth or a small surgical approach for impacted teeth.
- Close the site as needed and give post‑op instructions.
Anesthesia choices let patients be fully awake and comfortable or relaxed and lightly sedated during the procedure.
Recovery and healing
Typical recovery timeline:
- First 24–72 hours: most swelling and discomfort.
- 3–7 days: pain and swelling improve greatly; many return to normal activities.
- 2 weeks to months: full bone healing continues over time.
Pain is usually managed with prescription or over‑the‑counter meds. Eat soft foods, avoid smoking, and follow care instructions. Some practices offer platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) to support faster soft‑tissue healing in selected cases.
Risks and when to call your surgeon
Risks are uncommon but include:
- Dry socket (painful clot loss)
- Infection
- Temporary nerve irritation (numbness or tingling)
Contact your surgeon right away for heavy bleeding, fever, severe increasing pain after a few days, or new numbness that doesn’t improve.
Does everyone need their wisdom teeth removed?
No. Removal is recommended when wisdom teeth cause symptoms or pose a clear risk for future problems based on imaging. Asymptomatic, fully erupted wisdom teeth that are easy to clean can often be left alone and monitored with regular exams and X‑rays.
About Lane Oral Surgery
Lane Oral Surgery has provided oral and maxillofacial care for over 35 years, serving Plymouth, Sandwich, and Bourne, MA. The multi‑doctor team offers advanced imaging (panoramic and CBCT), multiple sedation options, PRP where appropriate, and clear patient resources to help you decide what’s best.
Next steps / Call to action
If you’re asking does everyone get their wisdom teeth in Plymouth, MA or wondering whether a sore back molar needs attention, schedule an exam and imaging. If you’re in Sandwich or Bourne and still asking does everyone get their wisdom teeth in Sandwich, MA, our team can review your X‑rays and give a personal recommendation—watchful waiting or removal based on risk and symptoms.
Contact Lane Oral Surgery to book a consultation and get clear, personalized guidance on your wisdom teeth.
