What causes missing wisdom tooth in upper jaw?
Patient: Hi doc, I suddenly realized today that most of my wisdom tooth in the upper jaw is missing.  Which is VERY strange and SCARY.  I have no idea what might have happend.  I started smoking about 4-5 months back and just smoke about 1-2 cigerettes per day.  Do you think that it is due smoking?  If not what could be the reason and the possible solution?  What should I do? Doctor: thanks for your query, i have gone through your query. the cause for the missing wisdom tooth is genetic etiology. the most common gene responsible is mutation in a gene called PAX9. the other reason could be the evolutionary changes. because of the change in food pattern from generation to generation the use of third molars is negligible. so the third molar fails to develop even if it develops fails to erupt because of reduced size of the jaw bone. nothing to worry about missing wisdom tooth because it is functionless tooth. you can consult a oral physician and take radiograph to confirm the missing teeth. i hope my answer will help you. take care