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Bulletin of the International Association for Paleodontology, Vol. 20 No. 1, 2026.

Short communication, Note

Redesignating third molars as vestigial organs?

Sayem Mulla orcid id orcid.org/0000-0003-1173-3982 ; Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai *
Viraj Kharkar orcid id orcid.org/0000-0002-3928-9214 ; Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai
Harjit Singh Kalsi orcid id orcid.org/0000-0002-5230-778X ; Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai

* Corresponding author.

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Abstract

In evolutionary biology and dentistry, third molars which are also referred to as wisdom teeth, have long been a topic of discussion. Due to nutritional and structural changes in humans, they are no longer as functionally necessary as they formerly were for digesting tough, raw meals. The topic of whether these teeth should be categorized as vestigial organs is raised by the fact that many people suffer from impaction, infections, and other issues as a result of their smaller jaw. Even while some contend that third molars are still only marginally useful, rising agenesis and extraction rates point to a continuing evolutionary deterioration. The evolutionary history, practical significance, and categorization of third molars as vestigial features in contemporary humans are all examined in this article.

Keywords

impacted wisdom teeth; wisdom teeth; agenesis of wisdom teeth

Hrčak ID:

348832

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/348832

Publication date:

3.7.2026.

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