When it comes to dental milestones, wisdom teeth are a topic that sparks a lot of questions — and sometimes anxiety. At Premier Dental Club in Houston, we often hear, “Does everyone get wisdom teeth?” The answer might surprise you.

Let’s take a closer look at what wisdom teeth are, who gets them, and what to expect if they appear.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of your mouth. Most people develop them between the ages of 17 and 25, which is why they’re often referred to as “teeth of wisdom.”

These molars were helpful for our early ancestors who had larger jaws and tougher diets. But today, due to changes in diet and jaw size, wisdom teeth often cause more trouble than they’re worth.

Does Everyone Get Wisdom Teeth?

No — not everyone develops wisdom teeth. In fact:

• Some people get all four

• Some get one, two, or three

• Others don’t develop any at all

Studies suggest that about 35% of people never develop wisdom teeth, and genetics play a big role in that. If your parents didn’t have them, there’s a good chance you won’t either.

What Happens If You Do Get Them?

For some lucky people, wisdom teeth come in perfectly straight and healthy, without causing any problems.

But for many others, there are complications like:

• Impaction (teeth get stuck under the gums)

• Crowding (they push other teeth out of alignment)

• Infection or swelling

• Jaw pain or stiffness

• Cavities or gum issues in hard-to-reach areas

That’s why regular dental X-rays are so important during your late teens and early twenties — we can track how these teeth are developing and decide if action is needed.

What Age Do Wisdom Teeth Usually Come In?

Wisdom teeth typically come in between the ages of 17 and 25, which is why they’re often referred to as “third molars” or the “teeth of wisdom.” However, the exact timing can vary from person to person. Some may see them emerge earlier or later, while others may never develop them at all. Regular dental checkups during the late teen years are important to monitor their development and prevent potential issues like crowding or impaction. At Premier Dental Club, we use advanced imaging to track your wisdom teeth and ensure timely, comfortable care if they need attention.

Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not necessarily. At Premier Dental Club, we only recommend removal if the teeth are:

• Causing pain or discomfort

• Damaging neighboring teeth

• Becoming infected or decayed

• Impacted or stuck under the gumline

• Contributing to bite problems or shifting alignment

If your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, and easy to clean, they can stay right where they are.

What to Expect from an Evaluation

At Premier Dental Club, we provide gentle and thorough wisdom tooth evaluations. Using digital X-rays, we assess your jaw, tooth position, and any signs of crowding or impaction. We’ll walk you through your options and create a treatment plan that’s right for you — whether that means monitoring or extraction.

Serving Cypress and Greater Houston with Trusted Dental Care

Whether you’re experiencing discomfort, seeking a second opinion, or simply curious about your wisdom teeth, Premier Dental Club is here to provide the expert guidance you need. With personalized care, a comfortable environment, and thorough oral evaluations, our team is committed to helping you feel confident about your dental health. Call us today at (346) 296-9056 or book your appointment online to get started.