If you are in your 30s or older with your wisdom teeth intact, you might wonder whether it is too late to extract them. Well, it depends entirely on your circumstances. Let’s explore the factors determining whether you are too old for wisdom teeth extraction and what you can expect from the procedure.
Aging and Wisdom Teeth – The Relationship
As we age, many bodily changes happen, including the popping and potential problems caused by our wisdom teeth. While they are usually extracted in case of impaction, many wonders if it is too late to remove them.
In short, no. You are never too late to get your wisdom teeth pulled out.
Age Limit For Wisdom Teeth Extraction – Is There Any?
There is no age limit on the procedure; however, there may be some risks. Wisdom teeth emerge either during late adolescence or early adulthood. When they come later in life, they cause more problems due to less space in the jawbone, leading to overcrowding and misalignment of other teeth.
Therefore, extracting becomes inevitable in such situations and helps prevent future issues with your oral health.
Should You Go For Early Extraction?
Early wisdom teeth extraction is usually the best option to avoid pain, infection, and other oral problems. Many people reach adulthood without having their wisdom teeth pop up or the importance of having them removed. Extracting pain-inducing wisdom teeth timely is beneficial for both long-term oral health and immediate discomfort.
How About Late Extraction of Wisdom Teeth?
Late wisdom teeth extraction is a very risky process, and you should know all the possible consequences before deciding on whether or not to undergo the operation.
For those who are 25 or older, late extraction causes more complications than benefits since, at this age, the teeth have usually fused to the jawbone requiring surgical removal.
However, under some circumstances, extracting wisdom teeth late results in nerve damage or even an infection.
It is also possible for a patient’s existing dental work to shift after an extraction, causing further problems with their bite and alignment. If left untreated for too long, impacted wisdom teeth can create cysts or tumors that may require additional surgery later on down the line. Additionally, there is no guarantee that an older patient will respond well to anesthesia and sedatives used in these surgeries.
Key Factors Of Wisdom Teeth Removal
For many adults, wisdom teeth can be a source of pain and discomfort. Knowing when to have your wisdom teeth extracted can be tricky – especially for people over the age of 30. Before deciding whether or not to have your wisdom teeth removed, there are several factors you should consider.
The first thing to consider is the condition of your teeth and gums. If you are feeling any pain in your teeth or if your gums are swollen or bleeding around your wisdom teeth, it is a good idea to get them removed sooner rather than later. However, if there is no discomfort, it may be best to leave them be.
Closing Note
Prompt treatment is beneficial to save your life. Do not ignore your oral call, and get in touch with a dentist from Cinco Ranch Family Dentistry for immediate treatment. Dial (281) 407-5442 to connect with us.