The wisdom teeth typically emerge between the ages of seventeen and twenty-five. These third molars are quite large, and modern humans often do not have enough room to accommodate them. This can make the emergence of the wisdom teeth quite painful, and leaving them in in these cases can lead to infections as well as misalignment of the bite. While they are usually removed in the late teens or early twenties, they can be extracted at any stage of a patient’s life. Here’s a brief guide to wisdom tooth removal for those who have waited a while before deciding on extraction.
Why Would I Need My Wisdom Teeth Out If I’ve Had Them for Decades?
While many people are eager to have their wisdom teeth removed in their early twenties due to constant pain, many other people have enough room to accommodate them. In cases where they cause no problems, it is perfectly fine to leave them in. However, wisdom teeth can be much harder to clean than the other teeth, which can become a problem if arthritis starts to set in at later ages. Improperly cleaned teeth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease that can adversely affect your oral health and sometimes lead to dangerous secondary infections like sepsis.
Should I Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed at a Later Age?
One of the reasons that dentists often recommend removing the wisdom teeth earlier is that it is usually less stressful to extract them at younger ages. As the body ages, its tissues become more solidified, which makes disrupting them a more uncomfortable process. Older people having their wisdom teeth removed may experience a more involved procedure and a longer recovery period. They may also have a greater risk of post-operative issues like infection, bleeding, and nerve injury.
However, after the surgical sites have healed, an older patient can expect all the benefits of having their wisdom teeth removed such as increased comfort and reduced risks of infection. Such a patient can mitigate the risk of developing complications by following their dentist’s aftercare instructions and maintaining excellent oral hygiene. It’s also crucial to see your dentist at least twice a year so your oral health can be professionally monitored.
About the Practice
Oakbrook Dental & Orthodontics is proud to deliver the finest comprehensive dental care to the community of McKinney, TX. Led by Drs. Nathan Coughlin, Manhvu Nguyen, Vinhson Nguyen, and Stephanie Weng, the staff ensures that each patient receives personalized and compassionate care that helps preserve their oral health for life. Areas of expertise include preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as wisdom tooth extractions. To schedule a consultation for wisdom tooth extraction, contact the office online or dial (469) 526-4040.