Most people have their wisdom teeth removed during their late teens or their early twenties. But what if you’re already past this age and still have your third molars? Is it still possible to have them extracted, or has the opportunity to do so long passed? Figuring out the answer to this question could be essential for protecting your oral health. Here’s what older patients should know about wisdom tooth extractions.
Why are Wisdom Teeth Often Removed?
Wisdom teeth typically attempt to erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. At that point, all of the other teeth in the mouth have already emerged, leaving little room for additional teeth. Consequently, it’s not uncommon for wisdom teeth to become partially or fully impacted in the gums, which can be very painful. They may also come in at the wrong angle and push against your other teeth, leading to significant damage.
Even if the wisdom teeth do manage to erupt, their location can make it difficult to clean them properly. This can potentially make them more likely to develop cavities. On top of that, it’s not uncommon for gum disease to occur around the wisdom teeth.
Is There an Upper Age Limit for Having Wisdom Teeth Removed?
The good news is that there is no such thing as being too old to have wisdom teeth taken out. Even if you still have your wisdom teeth after the age of 50, removing them is still an option if it would be beneficial to your oral health.
That being said, there’s a reason why wisdom teeth are normally extracted during the late teens or early adulthood. As time passes, your wisdom teeth become more embedded in the jawbone, which makes them more difficult to remove. Thus, older patients can generally expect a more complex extraction procedure. Nevertheless, said procedure could still ultimately be the best choice for your smile.
Should You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Generally, a wisdom tooth extraction is recommended if:
- You are experiencing pain or irritation in the back of your mouth.
- There are signs of an infection around the wisdom teeth.
- You are having trouble eating.
- There’s evidence that the wisdom teeth are having an adverse effect on your other teeth.
If you have any reason to think that you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. They can determine whether an extraction is required, and they can give you a clear idea of what to expect from the process.
About the Author
Dr. David Salibian went to Tufts University School of Dental Medicine for his dental degree. He cares about providing his patients with the best that modern dentistry has to offer, which is why he’s dedicated to his continuing education. His practice, EyeSmile Dentistry and Optometry of Belmont, welcomes patients of all ages and offers gentle wisdom tooth extractions. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Salibian, visit his website or call (617) 484-7869.