Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually appear in the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, they don’t cause any issues. But for others, they may bring pain, overcrowding, and other problems that require removal. So, when is the right time to remove a wisdom tooth? Why do you need to get my wisdom teeth taken out? Here are four factors to consider.
- Comfort: If you’re in pain or discomfort, it’s best to take care of it as soon as possible. Leaving it too long can make the pain worse.
- Risk of Infection: If your wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they’re stuck in the jawbone or gums, you’re at a higher risk of infection. To reduce this risk, removing them sooner is recommended.
- Overcrowding: If your wisdom teeth are causing overcrowding in your mouth, extracting them quickly can help keep other teeth from getting misaligned, and can help prevent gum disease.
- Age: Generally speaking, removing wisdom teeth is easier if you’re younger, as the roots of the teeth are not as developed in young people.
All in all, the best time to remove a wisdom tooth is when it’s causing pain, overcrowding, or infection. But it’s important to factor in your age and the potential risks of the procedure.
See also our guide for Wisdom Teeth Removal
What is the best time to remove wisdom teeth?
On the whole, winter is a great time to get wisdom teeth extracted. This is due to the slower healing process in winter, which lowers the risk of infection. In addition, the chillier weather helps reduce pain and swelling.
Do I have to take out my wisdom teeth?
No, it’s not mandatory to have your wisdom teeth removed. However, if you’re having troubles with them, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist to figure out if extraction is the right choice.
Good to know: Wisdom Teeth Removal Costs
Is it a complicated procedure?
In most cases, the procedure for removing wisdom teeth is fairly straightforward. However, it may be more complex if the teeth are impacted or there’s a danger of nerve damage. In these cases, it pays to talk to your dentist.
Read about an Anesthesia for Wisdom Teeth Removal
More Questions and Answers
Do wisdom teeth need to be removed immediately?
No, wisdom teeth don’t need to be removed immediately. In fact, it’s best to wait until the teeth have fully erupted before considering removal. This is because the teeth are easier to remove when they’re fully visible.
What happens if you wait too long to get wisdom teeth out?
If you wait too long to get your wisdom teeth out, you may experience pain, infection, and other complications. Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding in the mouth, which can lead to crooked teeth and other dental issues. Additionally, wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they’re stuck in the jawbone and can’t erupt. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to other teeth.
How long does wisdom tooth removal take?
Conveniently located wisdom teeth are removed in minutes. However, complex surgeries to remove teeth that have grown in improperly in the gum can take anywhere from 20-30 minutes to an hour.
What are the benefits of keeping your wisdom teeth?
In some cases, it may be beneficial to keep your wisdom teeth. For example, if your wisdom teeth are healthy and properly aligned, they can help with chewing and biting. Additionally, keeping your wisdom teeth can help prevent overcrowding in the mouth.
What should I do before removing my wisdom tooth?
Before having your wisdom tooth removed, it’s important to talk to your dentist. Your dentist will be able to assess your individual situation and determine if removal is necessary. Additionally, your dentist can provide you with pre- and post-operative instructions to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
Is it painful to have your wisdom teeth removed?
The pain associated with wisdom tooth removal varies from person to person. Generally, the procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. After the procedure, you may experience some soreness and swelling, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.