Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in your mouth. They typically grow between the ages of 17-25 and often cause discomfort when they come in.
Whether or not to remove wisdom teeth is a decision that depends on a variety of factors. While some people may experience no problems with their wisdom teeth, others may need to have them removed due to issues like impaction, overcrowding, or decay.
If you’re wondering when the right age is to remove your wisdom teeth, this comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know.
How to Know If Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed
Before deciding to remove your wisdom teeth, it’s important to know if they’re causing any issues. Some indications that wisdom teeth need to be removed are:
– Pain, swelling or tenderness in the gums.
– Difficulty opening your mouth.
– Jaw pain or stiffness.
– Headaches.
– Crowding or shifting of other teeth.
It’s essential to visit your dentist regularly for teeth cleanings, checkups, and X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and any potential problems they may cause.
When is the Right Age to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
In general, dentists usually recommend that wisdom teeth should be removed between the ages of 17 to 25. This is because the roots of these teeth are not yet fully formed, and the bone around them is less dense, which makes it easier to remove them.
If you wait until you’re older, the roots of your wisdom teeth will have fully formed, and the bone around them will be denser, making removal more complicated and increasing the risk of complications.
However, it’s important to note that not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, and there are exceptions to the general guidelines.
Exceptions to the Guidelines
If your wisdom teeth are not causing any problems, your dentist may recommend leaving them in place. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, including:
– If the wisdom teeth are causing crowding or shifting of other teeth, it’s best to get them removed.
– If the wisdom teeth cannot fully emerge from the gums, it can cause infection or cyst development, in which case, removal is necessary.
– If the wisdom teeth are decayed or damaged, they will need to be extracted.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After wisdom teeth are removed, you can expect some degree of swelling, pain, and bleeding. Here are some tips to aid in recovering from the procedure:
– Using an ice pack can help reduce swelling.
– Pain relievers can be helpful for pain relief.
– Avoid any strenuous activities or exercise for a few days.
– Be gentle when brushing and flossing.
Conclusion
Knowing when the right age is to remove wisdom teeth is crucial in maintaining good dental health. While the general guideline is to remove them between the ages of 17-25, there are some exceptions. Any issues with wisdom teeth should be evaluated by a dentist, who can determine the best course of action and ensure a healthy recovery after extraction.
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