AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Many people who develop them find that they do not have enough space in their oral cavity to accommodate a third set of molars. In modern times, wisdom teeth have become largely regarded as being vestigial structures (unnecessary parts of the human body, like the appendix).

Detailed explanation-2: -In humans, the appendix is a good example of a vestigial organ. This non-functioning organ eventually degenerates, shrinking in size and disappearing ultimately.

Detailed explanation-3: -Wisdom teeth were the last set of molars that were used by our ancestors. They were required to assist in chewing hard items such as roots and nuts. These are no longer required hence they have become vestigial.

Detailed explanation-4: -My patients often ask me why we have wisdom teeth since they usually need to be removed. The answer is, they are vestigial organs-things that we still have from our ancestors that we no longer need or use. As we evolved, our jaws have shortened and therefore most of us no longer have the room for these teeth.

Detailed explanation-5: -Examples of vestigial structures in humans would be wisdom teeth and the appendix.