If you’re wondering when the right time is to remove wisdom teeth, a little background is a good place to start.
These molars are located at the back of your mouth. They are the last ones that erupt, usually when you’re somewhere between 15 and 25 years old. Sometimes there isn’t enough space for them to push through or erupt, and they can become impacted. That means you’re at risk of them causing infection, damaging other teeth, and causing pain.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth Screening
Your dentist will typically begin screening for impacted wisdom teeth in late adolescence, between the ages of 15 and 17. This early screening is important because it enables your dental team to monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and identify potential problems before they become painful or cause damage.
Screening often includes a dental examination along with X-rays, such as a panoramic radiograph, which gives your dentist a complete view of your wisdom teeth’s position and growth.
Why Wisdom Teeth Can Become an Issue
Understanding why your wisdom teeth are a problem means understanding how these last molars can cause issues.
Impaction and Crowding: Sometimes there’s not enough room, and they can get stuck against other teeth or the gums. When wisdom teeth are impacted and begin to push forward, they can press against your other teeth, causing pressure and discomfort.
Partial Eruption. Here’s another issue that can crop up. If your wisdom teeth only partially erupt and don’t get into the right position, a gum flap can form that can trap bacteria. That can cause other issues, such as inflammation, painful swelling, and bad breath.
Hard-to-Clean Location: People need to remember that these molars are far back in their mouths. That makes them hard to clean properly, and they can develop cavities easily. They are hard to brush and floss, which makes your wisdom teeth a contributor to bone loss and gum disease.
There are other red flags, and any of these issues can get worse if you don’t address them right away.
So, When Is the Right Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
There’s no need to suffer from jaw pain and headaches caused by wisdom tooth pressure and the inflammation it triggers. The decision to have wisdom teeth removed depends on several factors that your dentist will carefully evaluate.
Your dentist will look at:
• The health of your gums
• The available space in your mouth
• The direction your wisdom teeth are growing
• The position and health of nearby teeth
• Your overall risk of cavities
Early Removal Is Often Best
It’s also a good idea to book an appointment or come in if you have problems opening your jaw or chewing. However, wisdom tooth removal is often recommended in young adulthood, even before problems arise, because the risks and recovery period tend to increase with age.
According to the Ontario Dental Association, when you’re younger, the roots haven’t completely formed, making the teeth easier to extract and recovery faster.
Warning Signs to Watch For
It’s time to come and see a dentist when you notice:
• Pain in the back of your mouth
• Swollen gums
• A bad taste or pus
• Difficulty opening your jaw
• Problems chewing
• Persistent headaches
The Process: What to Expect
Knowing what to expect helps to lessen any anxiety. The whole process starts with an initial dental exam and consultation, followed by X-rays and imaging.
Referral to a Specialist
On your dentist’s recommendation, you might be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. These are the dental professionals who specialize in wisdom teeth. They’ll be able to explain the procedure to you in detail and address any questions or concerns you may have.
Dental Sedation Options
Your dental team will discuss sedation options so you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Wisdom teeth extraction is commonly performed under intravenous (I.V.) sedation, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. At Keshavarz Dentistry, we also offer nitrous oxide for patients who feel anxious.
Understanding the Risks
While wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, it’s important to understand the potential risks.
Some common risks are temporary and include:
• Dry socket
• Minor infections
• Bleeding
Less common risks can last longer and may include injury to your nerves, teeth, gums, or tongue. Your dentist will explain these risks based on your individual case and take every precaution to minimize them.
Recovery and Aftercare
Following the removal of your wisdom teeth, it’s important to follow the appropriate post-extraction care instructions provided by your dentist to ensure a fast and proper recovery. This commonly includes:
• Prescription(s) for pain medication and/or antibiotics
• Following a liquid or soft food diet
• Using ice packs to control swelling
• Avoiding alcohol and smoking, which can slow healing
• Keeping the extraction site clean
Most patients find that recovery is manageable, especially when wisdom teeth are removed at the right time.
Need Help with Your Wisdom Teeth?
Keshavarz Dentistry in Brampton has been helping residents with their smile since 2014. Are you asking when the right time to remove wisdom teeth is? We can help you with everything you need to know in a friendly and accommodating atmosphere.
Our experienced team provides wisdom tooth removal with the tender, loving care you deserve. We accept CDCP benefits and work with most insurance providers, making quality dental care accessible for you and your family.
Don’t wait until wisdom teeth problems become painful. Call 905-791-3867 or book an appointment online today. We welcome new patients including teens and adults who need their wisdom teeth removed or extracted.
