Wisdom teeth may grow late, but they are a part of the permanent set — which means they cannot grow back once they have been removed. When the third molars erupt, and a dentist performs wisdom tooth treatment, that particular molar is history.
That being said, there is an unusual occurrence; some people have more than four wisdom teeth. Also known as supernumerary teeth, this phenomenon is called hyperdontia due to the extra teeth growing in the gums.
So, can wisdom teeth grow back? Or is it just hyperdontia? Carry on reading to learn all about this phenomenon.
Can Wisdom Teeth Regrow After Extraction?
To answer, no, wisdom teeth cannot grow back after the extraction procedure. Some people may have more than the typical four third molars, but that is all. There is no possibility of regrowth after a permanent tooth has been pulled out.
The tooth phenomenon is pretty straightforward, with every structure forming from a tiny bud. Some people, though, already have tooth buds prior to their birth. Made of minerals, teeth are sturdy like our fingernails. The only difference is that while fingernails continue to grow, permanent teeth do not come back after removal.
When it comes to supernumerary teeth, they are just additional teeth. Molars, in general, erupt behind and right next to wisdom teeth. Moreover, molars are smaller in size in comparison to wisdom teeth. Usually, what happens is that the small bud erupts, but it is not as prominent as regular third molars.
To wrap it up, if someone claims their wisdom teeth grew back after extraction, it was just the supernumerary teeth. They were present behind the third molars all along, hidden by the visibly prominent and bigger wisdom teeth.
The Mystery Behind Supernumerary Teeth: What Causes Them?
Yes, some individuals have more than four wisdom teeth. These supernumerary teeth are not wisdom teeth, though, but molars.
Compared to regular wisdom teeth, the extra teeth are much smaller — around 1/6th or 1/8th of the third molars.
In addition, extra tooth growth is most likely in the posterior side of your jaw. Hence, they’re not spotted until wisdom teeth have even formed. This is why many people confuse supernumerary teeth as wisdom teeth growing back.
Hyperdontia Treatment
Although hyperdontia is a rare occurrence, it does not normally require treatment. Nonetheless, it might come in the way of normal function and cause complications. If that is the case, they might need to be extracted to prevent issues.
Symptoms of hyperdontia, other than an additional visible tooth, include pain, discomfort, swelling, and weakness in the mouth.
If you suspect an extra tooth in your mouth, it is best to visit your dentist for treatment. They can assess your mouth and decide which treatment to proceed with.
What’s Next?
To conclude, wisdom teeth cannot grow back. When an extra tooth is spotted after wisdom tooth extraction, it is just a supernumerary tooth. The extra teeth are considered hyperdontia, and they become noticeable after wisdom tooth extraction because they are considerably small compared to the third molars. Your dentist can determine if you require treatment for hyperdontia or not.
At Smile One Dental, we aim to give you a healthy and confident smile. So, why the wait? Dial (713) 936-4062 to contact us now or visit our team at 5962 Renwick Drive, Houston, TX 77081.