It’s fairly common for people to get their wisdom teeth removed in their early 20s or even late teens. They may not have caused any problems when you were younger, but what if they start acting up now that you’re older? You may wonder if you missed your chance to have them extracted. Continue reading to learn more about what you should know when it comes to extracting your third molars as an older patient.
Why Do People Have Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Your wisdom teeth typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. The rest of your adult teeth have already emerged well before them, so there may not be much room left over in your smile. Because of this, the third molars may become impacted or come in at the wrong angle. It can put pressure on your other teeth, leading to damage or discomfort.
If they do erupt fully, some patients may find it difficult to properly clean back there in their mouth. This puts their smile at risk for oral health issues like cavities or gum disease.
Am I Too Old to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
You might be relieved to hear that there isn’t an age cap to having your third molars removed. If they are posing a risk to your mouth, then having them extracted can be beneficial.
With that being said, you should generally expect to need a more complex procedure. The older you are, the more embedded your third molars are in your jawbone, which can lead to some difficulty with removing them. Thankfully, your dentist will make the treatment as easy as possible for you.
Why Should I Get My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
When it comes to getting your third molars removed, it just depends on your oral health. Your dentist may recommend this procedure if:
- They are causing you pain or irritation
- They are showing signs of infection
- You have trouble eating
- There is a risk to your other teeth
The best way to tell if you need your wisdom teeth extracted is by visiting your dentist, especially if any of the bullet points above are true for you. They will take X-rays and assess your mouth to find what is best for your oral health and let you know what you can expect during the treatment!
About the Practice
At Barker, Rohner & Hunt DMD, you benefit from an experienced team of dentists who want the best for you. With state-of-the-art technology, we can find the root of your dental problems and execute effective treatments, all while keeping you comfortable, especially during a wisdom tooth removal. We understand how an extraction can be stressful, so we offer conscious sedation options available to you. If your third molars are causing you trouble, schedule an appointment or call us at (919) 847-7100.
