The Back Teeth Dilemma
Molars are called the ‘back teeth.’ At a certain age you would have all six in the upper arch and another six on the bottom. They include the wisdom tooth, the third one in the farthest end on both sides. They do have a purpose but they often come with issues.
Your twelve molars are your biggest and strongest teeth in the mouth with 2 to 3 roots anchored into the jaw bone. They have large surface areas that help chew and grind up food. The tongue pushes food to the back of your mouth when you eat. Molars break up the food into smaller portions so that they are easily swallowed. They also serve the important function of maintaining the height of the face.
Molars are the last set of teeth to erupt, usually coming in between the ages of 17 and 25. The third molar is generally known as the wisdom tooth, owing to it appearing when you are somewhat older and, hence, wiser.
Molars and Space
However, not everyone has enough space in their arch to accommodate all the back teeth, the wisdom teeth, especially. Sometimes, they get impacted, meaning they don’t erupt in the right position or right space, if there is any. They can just lie under the gums, or protrude beside a neighbor tooth causing a faulty bite. Their coming out can be quite painful, especially if they are misaligned. Hence, the problematic back teeth will highly likely get pulled out by your dentist by extraction.
On top of this, your back teeth are notoriously difficult to clean, not only due to their posterior location in the mouth, but also of the natural grooves and ridges found on their surfaces. These depressions enable you to grind food better, yet they are also places that collect particles of food and are not washed away easily. Brushing and flossing do not always get rid of them so that bacteria and plaque can build up easily in them. They increase your risk of developing cavities being more vulnerable to decay than the other teeth.
To prevent issues with your back teeth, find out if your third molars may cause future problems, like impaction. To keep cavities from developing in your back teeth, be sure to keep up with your oral hygiene routine. Be diligent and conscious in brushing with fluoride and flossing those teeth as you are with the rest of your dentition. Have a healthy diet and keep regular dental appointments.
SourceResolving Back Teeth Issues in Lynnwood
Learn more from your Lynnwood dentist when it comes to the care of your molars or back teeth.
