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Wisdom teeth removal has become so prevalent, it’s difficult to find someone who hasn’t undergone the procedure. What many teens, young adults, and their parents worry about is the exact age teeth should be removed and how oral surgery might conflict with school and work. Because there are consequences for waiting, it’s crucial to work closely with your dentist and oral surgeon to ensure teeth extraction happens at the right time.

The Best Age for Wisdom Teeth Removal

There isn’t a single right answer in terms of the best age for wisdom teeth removal. The wisdom teeth, or the third molars, begin to form sometime between the ages of 17 and 25, but because each patient is unique, this can happen earlier or later. Most oral surgeons recommend the procedure shortly after the third molars have formed, even if they aren’t causing pain.

Why You Shouldn’t Put It Off

Many people are tempted to put off wisdom teeth removal procedures, particularly if they aren’t experiencing painful symptoms as a result of their molars. There are several reasons your oral surgeon might recommend having those teeth removed sooner rather than later, including:

  • Oral Surgery Risks Increase With Age: The longer your molars remain in your mouth, the more established they become and the more difficult it is to remove them. This can make the procedure and recovery more painful. Also, the healing process slows down considerably as patients age.
  • wisdom teeth removalEffects on Your Other Teeth: Leaving your wisdom teeth in place can have a negative impact on the rest of your smile. Because there’s not enough room for the molars to fully erupt, they may press against other teeth. Not only is this painful, but it can also shift the teeth out of proper alignment. Additionally, partially erupted molars are extremely difficult to care for, increasing your risk of tooth decay and infection.
  • Damage to the Jawbone: Impacted wisdom teeth that aren’t removed in a timely manner may result in the growth of tumors or cysts. Over time, this can cause serious damage, not only to your other teeth, but also to your jawbone. As a result, more complex oral surgery is needed to remove the teeth and repair the jaw.

 

If you or your child is between the ages of 17 and 25, it’s important to see your dentist regularly to monitor any wisdom teeth growth or changes. They can then refer you to an oral surgeon when the time is right for wisdom teeth removal. For the best surgeons in Anchorage, turn to Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska. In addition to teeth extractions, they also do dental implants and perform comprehensive jaw surgery. Call (907) 561-1430 to schedule an appointment and visit their website to learn more about their esteemed oral surgeons.

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