If the human body includes wisdom teeth naturally, why do most people need to have these back molars extracted? The reality is that modern dentistry can be used to minimize many complications that were quite common in the past. Removing the wisdom teeth proactively can help you maintain optimal oral health. Every patient is unique, which is why it’s important to consult with your dentist for personalized treatment recommendations.
What You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth
The wisdom teeth are located in the very back of the mouth, and these molars typically emerge between the ages of 17 – 25. The problem is that most people don’t have enough space in their mouths for these teeth to grow in properly. So, if the wisdom teeth start to emerge, it can cause overcrowding and an increased risk of infection. Some people have such limited space that their wisdom teeth are impacted, so they don’t grow straight.
While some people have wisdom teeth that grow in without problems, the majority of the population will need wisdom teeth surgery. If the teeth are already erupted or positioned correctly, a simple extraction can be done. If the teeth are impacted or in an inconvenient position, then wisdom tooth surgery might be necessary.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay the Removal of Wisdom Teeth
Understandably, you might want to delay a major dental treatment, such as wisdom tooth extraction. But the reality is that a proactive approach with your wisdom teeth extraction is the best solution to avoid complications.
Here are some of the problems that can occur if you delay or avoid wisdom teeth removal:
- Risk of Infection: There is a higher chance that you will develop an infection in your mouth. When the wisdom teeth are partially erupted, pockets can likely form where bacteria start to thrive.
- Overcrowding: Not having enough space for the wisdom teeth means that all of your teeth could become overcrowded. When the wisdom teeth push through, it puts pressure on the rest of the teeth, causing shifting and misalignments.
- Tooth Damage: The pressure from the wisdom teeth on neighboring teeth can increase the risk of decay and cause the enamel to wear down.
- Stiffness and Jaw Pain: Eventually, these impacted wisdom teeth can interfere with your jaw function, causing pain and stiffness.
The Best Timing for Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Regular dental check-ups offer the optimal time to determine the ideal schedule for your wisdom tooth removal. Your dentist can check the position of the wisdom teeth using digital imaging and help you determine the potential risk. If you are experiencing any symptoms relating to your back molars, then immediate wisdom teeth extractions might be recommended. Otherwise, you can schedule the appointment at your convenience.
We often recommend wisdom tooth extraction in the late teens or early twenties. For personalized recommendations, talk to our dental team and we will create your personalized treatment plan. The goal is to remove the wisdom teeth before you develop any pain or complications. This proactive approach will help you avoid long-term dental issues.
It is also possible to extract wisdom teeth later in life. But older patients often have longer recovery times, and there is a higher risk of complications.
Aftercare Tips for Wisdom Teeth Extractions
During the recovery time, there are a few things that you can do to speed up your healing time and reduce the risk of complications. The first 24 hours are critical: rest a lot, apply ice packs to your jaw/cheeks, and don’t participate in any strenuous activities.
It’s best to stick to a diet of soft foods during this time. Ideal ingredients include yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. But be careful: don’t drink through a straw because the pressure can dislodge the blood clots and result in dry sockets (which are very painful).
Don’t smoke during your recovery. Also, stay proactive about good oral hygiene. Be very gentle and avoid the extraction sites for a few days. You can rinse with salt water, as recommended by your dentist.
FAQ: What happens if you delay wisdom tooth extraction?
If you delay wisdom tooth removal, then you might have complications such as infections, tooth damage, and increasing pain.
Why do experts now say not to remove your wisdom teeth?
Patients with healthy wisdom teeth might benefit from keeping these molars. If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted and not causing issues, then we will monitor them instead of extracting them.
How long after wisdom teeth removal can I get a dental cleaning?
We usually recommend waiting for at least 2 weeks after wisdom teeth removal before having your next dental cleaning appointment.
When is it too late to get wisdom teeth removed?
It’s never too late to remove the wisdom teeth. But extraction earlier in life is much better than waiting until adulthood. Older adults tend to have a higher risk of complications and longer recovery times.
Call the Widom Teeth Experts
If you need wisdom tooth removal, then talk to our experienced team about oral surgery and other treatment options. Not only do we offer wisdom teeth extractions, but our office also provides a range of general dentistry and cosmetic services. Please call our office at (860) 889-6445.
