You may have heard someone say, “My bottom teeth got crowded because my wisdom teeth came in.” It sounds like it makes sense, right? You get new teeth in the back, and suddenly, the front ones start to look like a traffic jam. However, the truth is that wisdom teeth do not cause your bottom teeth to crowd. Unfortunately, it is a common myth. Today, we will explain why this is not true.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?Wisdom teeth are your third molars. These molars are the last teeth in the back of your mouth. They come in during your late teens or early twenties. Some people have all four, while others have fewer, and some do not have any at all.

These teeth used to be helpful for our ancient ancestors, who needed them to chew tough plants and raw meat. However, today, our diets and jaws have changed. Sadly, many people do not have enough space in their mouths for wisdom teeth to fit correctly. 

Why Do People Think They Cause Crowding?When wisdom teeth start to grow in, you might feel some pressure or soreness in your jaw. At the same time, you might notice your bottom front teeth beginning to shift. If these two things happen around the same time, people often assume that one causes the other. Unfortunately, it is just a coincidence—not cause and effect.

 So What Does Cause Crowding?  The truth is that tooth crowding happens for many reasons, and wisdom teeth are just one part of the story. Here are a few reasons why teeth can become crowded:

1. Jaw Size: Not everyone has the same size jaw. Some people have smaller jaws that may not have enough space for all their teeth. If your jaw is smaller, your teeth might not fit well, leading to crowding.
2. Genetics: Just like how you might have your Mom’s eyes or your Dad’s hair, you can also inherit the shape and size of your teeth and jaw from your parents. If your family has a history of crowded teeth, you may also have them, regardless of whether you have wisdom teeth.
3. Early Tooth Loss: If a child loses a baby tooth too early, the other teeth might shift into that space. The shift can cause crowding when the adult teeth come in.
4. Thumb Sucking: Some kids suck their thumbs for a long time. This habit can change the way teeth grow and can lead to crowding.
5. Poor Dental Care: If teeth are not adequately taken care of, they can develop cavities or gum disease. The disease can lead to tooth loss, which can cause the remaining teeth to shift and crowd.

While wisdom teeth can sometimes cause discomfort or other dental issues, they are not the main reason why teeth become crowded. Many people who do not have wisdom teeth can still have overcrowded teeth!

It is also essential to note that not everyone requires the removal of their wisdom teeth. Dentists often recommend removing them if they are impacted (stuck and unable to grow in properly) or if they cause problems. But if wisdom teeth grow in straight and there is enough space in the mouth, they can stay!

The Bottom Line: In conclusion, wisdom teeth do not cause lower tooth crowding. Crowding occurs for various reasons, including differences in jaw size, genetic factors, and oral habits. If you have concerns about your teeth or wisdom teeth, it’s always a good idea to talk to your dentist. They can help you understand what’s happening in your mouth and what steps to take for a healthy smile!