What Age Should I Consider a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Anaheim, CA

While wisdom tooth extraction is not a procedure that most people enjoy, the results can significantly improve oral health, as well as general comfort. With that being said, it is important to be aware of when to consider an extraction when wisdom teeth begin erupting.

When to extract wisdom teeth

The third and final set of molars are called the wisdom teeth because they are the last adult teeth to grow in, when a person is supposedly "older and wiser." However, these teeth may cause issues with oral health, especially if they are impacted. These teeth failing to erupt from the gums completely or at all can cause various oral health issues, though even people who have wisdom teeth that are not impacted may want to consider extraction.

The typical age for wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth should not necessarily be extracted at a certain age. Everyone’s wisdom teeth come in at a different time, and occasionally people do not have them at all or do not have issues when they do come in. However, they most commonly appear during the later teen years, so to be careful people should have them checked for during adolescent years, once the other adult teeth have grown in. Most dentists begin checking for impacted wisdom teeth between the ages of 16 and 19. It should be noted that it is still possible to perform a wisdom tooth extraction at an older age, but it can cause more pain than if the patient is younger or still developing.

Reasons not to delay an extraction

Dentists typically recommend that wisdom teeth be removed as soon as they appear, especially if they are impacted. Because teeth grow and develop roots beneath the gums, it can be extremely painful to wait on pulling them. Having them extracted early on can help reduce the pain from pulling not just the tooth but the fully developed roots too.

Aside from the roots causing pain, the bone around the teeth will also be softer at a younger age. When the wisdom teeth first develop, the surrounding jawbone will still be tender and not yet fully formed. As time passes, and the teeth become set in place, the bone will harden, which could cause greater discomfort during a wisdom tooth extraction.

Other factors

Beyond adolescence, a lot of dentists recommend that their patients consider a wisdom tooth extraction due to pain or crowding. In many cases, other teeth surrounding the wisdom teeth may start to shift due to a limited amount of space. In other scenarios, impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain or infections between other teeth or even along the gum line. When either crowding or pain takes place, patients should look into a wisdom tooth extraction.

Considering a wisdom tooth extraction

Are your wisdom teeth causing you trouble or discomfort? It is better not to wait for treatment. Any questions or concerns regarding wisdom teeth removal should be directed to a dental professional.

Request an appointment here: https://www.dentalgroupofanaheim.com or call Dental Group of Anaheim at (714) 262-4224 for an appointment in our Anaheim office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Anaheim, CA.

Related Posts

Tips From A Dental Practice On Preventing Gum Disease

You need to have a checkup at a dental practice every six months. This is when a hygienist cleans your teeth to remove any buildup of plaque and tartar. This is also the time when a dentist does an oral examination, looking for things like cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer. However, during regular…

What A Dental Practice Looks For At A Checkup

Getting a dental practice at a dental practice is a critical component of having better oral health. Many complications could arise from not getting regular visits. The dentist can find these issues early on, making the treatment plan better. Patients should have a checkup every six months or more if there are other issues.Patients should…

Ask A Dental Practice: What Foods Are Healthy For The Teeth?

As part of a dental practice, a dentist educates patients on healthy eating. When it comes to eating right, most people think of dieting or getting the body healthy. However, what you put into your body also has a direct effect on the health of your gums and teeth. Even people who have their teeth…

Your Dental Practice Discusses Gum And Oral Health

Optimal oral health is possible through regular visits at a dental practice and personal oral hygiene practices. The main goal of an ideal dental practice is to have their patients extend the level of oral care that they provide. Through regular oral care practices, dental patients can help control or even prevent serious oral diseases.…