If your child has braces, the orthodontist will likely recommend scheduling wisdom teeth removal after the braces come off, but before the wisdom teeth grow in and potentially mess up the straightened teeth. The thought of all the time and money spent on braces being undone by wisdom teeth can motivate any parent to act.
Pain: It’s easier to prevent pain than deal with it later. Wisdom teeth trying to fit in with the other teeth can cause problems like decay, infections, abscesses, and misalignment, leading to jaw pain and swelling and decay to the adjacent teeth, and resorption of adjacent bone.
Gum Disease: The back of the mouth, where wisdom teeth are located, is a hotspot for bacteria. Food can get trapped between the wisdom teeth and gums, leading to decay. If left untreated, it can result in gum disease, bone loss and subsequent additional tooth loss. Removing the wisdom teeth can help prevent the progression of gum disease.
Health Risks: Oral health is closely linked to your overall well-being. A gum infection can enter the bloodstream, increasing blood pressure and potentially leading to serious health problems like strokes and heart attacks.
Cysts: If wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to come in, cysts can form, damaging the jawbone and tooth roots. A biopsy would be required in this instance to learn the diagnosis and treat accordingly.
Difficult Extractions: The longer you delay, the more challenging it becomes to remove the wisdom teeth. The best time for extraction is between the ages of 16 and 20, when the roots are still developing. The goal time to remove the wisdom tooth is when the root is ⅓-⅔ developed.
Removing wisdom teeth can prevent these issues. If your child’s wisdom teeth are coming in fine and not causing any problems, regular dental checkups are still important. Wisdom teeth can be prone to decay and gum disease, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on them.
