Skip to Content
Samoset Family Dental logo link to home

(508) 746-4456

Link to Our Facebook Link to Google Link to Our Yelp
Menu
›
›

Posted January 23, 2024

As an adult is it necessary for me to have my wisdom teeth removed?

Don't Let Age Fool You: Why Wisdom Teeth Removal, which is usually between ages 16 to 20 years old, Might Be Crucial for Adults?

As an adult, you might think you're past the age of wisdom teeth woes. But the truth is, wisdom teeth extraction can be even more critical for adults than for teenagers. Here's why:

1. Systemic Issues and Hidden Risks:

Adults often have more complex medical histories and underlying health conditions that can exacerbate the dangers of impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth. If your immune system is already taxed; it can be much harder to fight off an infection caused by wisdom teeth.

2. Long-Term Consequences of Neglect:

  1. Damage to surrounding teeth, causing dental cavities leading to painful root canals, crowns, and even extractions
  2. Gum disease of neighboring teeth, leading to bone loss, painful abscesses and eventual tooth failure
  3. Difficulty chewing and speaking possibly leading to social insecurities and unnecessary embarrassment
  4. Painful infections such as pericoronitis and cyst

Leaving problematic wisdom teeth untreated can lead to a cascade of issues down the line including dental caries on adjacent teeth:

Panoramic radiograph of impacted lower wisdom teeth (green arrows) in a 26-year-old with dental caries (red arrows) on the adjacent teeth which may need root canal treatment or extraction By Coronation Dental Specialty Group - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30457448
Pericoronitis By Coronation Dental Specialty Grou - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30861666

3. Addressing Specific Adult Concerns:

While wisdom teeth removal is generally safe and effective, there are some specific considerations for adults:

  1. Denser jawbone: Recovery time may be slightly longer compared to younger patients.
  2. Slower healing: Adults may heal slightly slower than teenagers.
  3. Nearby vital structures: Fully developed roots might be closer to nerves and blood vessels, requiring extra care during surgery.

But don't worry, these are not roadblocks, just bumps in the road!

4. A Personalized Approach for Optimal Results:

During your consultation, your dentist will:

  1. Analyze your X-rays to understand the exact positioning and potential risks of your wisdom teeth.
  2. Discuss anesthesia options to ensure a comfortable and pain-free experience.
  3. Develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and concerns.
  4. Provide detailed post-operative instructions to promote a smooth and speedy recovery.

5. Investing in Your Oral Health for Life:

Ultimately, adult wisdom teeth removal is about investing in your long-term oral health. By removing these potential troublemakers, you gain:

  1. Improved access to clean all areas of your mouth
  2. Reduced risk of future dental problems
  3. A brighter, healthier smile you can be proud of

Remember, it's never too late to prioritize your oral health. Talk to your dentist today to see if wisdom teeth removal is the right choice for you.

Call our office, Samoset Family Dental, at 508-746-4456.