Third Molar Agenesis and Infertility: Evaluating a Persistent MythThrough Developmental Biology, Genetics, and Evolution

Abstract

The congenital absence of wisdom teeth (third molar agenesis) is among the most common developmental variations in humans, affecting approximately 23% of the global population. Third molar agenesis has been attributed to both genetic and evolutionary factors and is generally regarded as a normal variation in dental development rather than a pathological condition. Despite its prevalence, a persistent folk belief suggests that individuals born without wisdom teeth may be predisposed to infertility. Although this legend appears in various cultural traditions and contemporary online discussions, no scientific evidence currently supports a direct association between isolated wisdom tooth agenesis and impaired reproductive capacity. This commentary examines the biological plausibility of this claim through current understanding of odontogenesis, developmental signaling pathways, and reproductive biology. While several genes implicated in tooth agenesis, including PAX9, MSX1, AXIN2, WNT10A, and EDA, participate broadly in embryonic development, published studies have not demonstrated a relationship between isolated third molar agenesis and infertility. We discuss potential origins of this myth, including extrapolation from rare syndromic disorders affecting multiple organ systems and misunderstandings of developmental genetics. Finally, we outline future research directions that may elucidate shared developmental pathways between craniofacial and reproductive tissues. Current evidence indicates that congenital
absence of wisdom teeth should be regarded as a common developmental trait and not a predictor of reproductive health.