Why do we even have wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth cause so many problems, why do we even have them? Shouldn't evolution have removed them from our DNA by now?

There are several theories as to why even we have wisdom teeth.

1. Our Ancestors Needed Extra Chewing Power

Early humans had a much tougher diet than we do today — raw plants, nuts, seeds, and uncooked meat.These foods required a lot of chewing and grinding, so having an extra set of molars (the wisdom teeth) helped our ancestors break down fibrous food more efficiently.

Now that our diets are softer and cooked, those extra molars no longer serve much purpose — but they still try to erupt, often causing crowding and jaw pain.

2. Human Jaws Have Become Smaller

Over thousands of years, the human jaw has shrunk in size. Modern diets don’t require as much heavy chewing, so our bones adapted. Unfortunately, while our jaws got smaller, the number of teeth stayed the same. That’s why most people’s mouths don’t have enough room for wisdom teeth to erupt properly — leading to impaction, swelling, and gum infections.

3. Wisdom Teeth Were Once “Backup” Molars

Before modern dentistry, people often lost teeth early in life due to decay or injury. Wisdom teeth evolved as a kind of backup set, erupting in the late teens or twenties when earlier molars had worn down or fallen out. Today, with good dental hygiene and regular checkups, our first molars last a lifetime — leaving no space for these evolutionary leftovers.

4. Evolution Is Slowly Phasing Them Out

Evolution takes thousands of years, and we’re seeing early signs of change. Many people today are now born without one or more wisdom teeth, showing that our species is gradually adapting. However, for most of us, they still develop and cause issues, which is why safe removal remains so common.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth extracted, but removal is usually recommended if they are:

• causing issues. ie pain, swelling, decay, food impaction

• highly likely to cause issues

• needs removing to facilitate other treatment. ie orthodontic treatment

• is involved with oral pathology ie: a cyst or tumour

Pain-Free Wisdom Tooth Removal in Adelaide

At Adelaide Tooth Removals & Dental Implants, we specialise in gentle and safe wisdom teeth extractions under local, IV sedation or general aneasthetic. We are in a modern purpose built facility with advanced surgical equipment. Our team ensures every patient receives personalised care, minimal discomfort, and clear recovery guidance.

Final Thought

Wisdom teeth are fascinating relics of our evolutionary past — once useful, but now often a source of pain and infection. While evolution may one day remove them entirely, for now, modern dentistry makes it easy to remove them safely and comfortably.

Written by Dr Andrew Chan

Principal Dentist — Adelaide Tooth Removals & Dental Implants . Specialising in gentle wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and oral surgery in Adelaide.

📍 Find us at: www.adelaidetoothremovals.com.au

📞 Book a consultation: 08 8164 5546