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The Wisdom Teeth Dilemma: Evolution, Impact, and Controversy

Every year, approximately five million Americans undergo wisdom teeth removal, costing a staggering three billion dollars collectively. While many patients deem the extraction worth the expense, as wisdom teeth can lead to severe complications, the reasoning behind their removal is both evolutionary and medical.

The Ancient Function of Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth have existed for thousands of years, serving a crucial role in the diets of our ancestors. Before the invention of cooking, around seven thousand years ago, humans consumed a diet rich in raw meats and fibrous plants. The third molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, were essential for grinding down tough food, much like our current molars do.