If you receive regular checkups at your family dentist, a routine X-ray may show signs of wisdom teeth emerging under your gums. At this time, you may decide based on your age and condition of the teeth if oral surgery is needed to remove them. The dentists at Pfeiffer Family Dentistry recommend that patients have their wisdom teeth removed early to help reduce the chances of infection or inflammation.

The guide below explains the ideal time for extraction and why it is beneficial for teens and young adults. 

The Ideal Age for Wisdom Teeth Extraction

While a patient may have their wisdom teeth removed at any age, the ideal window for extraction is between the ages of 14 and 25. This is because the tooth’s roots have not finished forming at this time, which makes removing the molars easier. Wisdom teeth without fully formed roots are also less likely to cause an infection.

Extractions after the age of 24 may be more difficult and require more recovery time. Still, some dentists prefer to wait until their patient is at least 18 years old of age for oral surgery when the tooth is easier to manipulate during removal. To be sure about how early you can receive removal, talk to your oral surgery specialist to determine their requirements and specifications. 

Since patients between 14-25 are the most likely to develop wisdom teeth, it is important for young men and women to receive regular dental checkups. However, some people may not develop wisdom teeth until their late teens or early 20s, while others may not see signs of their third molars at all. Each person is unique, so check in with your dentist about monitoring your mouth for signs of wisdom teeth. When it is time to remove them, a customized treatment plan will be designed especially for you. 

To make an appointment to discuss wisdom teeth extraction, call Pfeiffer Family Dentistry in Fort Thomas, KY, at (859) 441-1900. For information about their general dentistry and oral surgery services, visit their website.