True enough, lots of folks have their wisdom teeth removed early. They undergo the process before their third molars can cause lasting oral issues. Still, this fact doesn’t mean you’re ever too old for wisdom teeth removal. Adults of all ages can get the treatment and get rid of their extra molars. As for the how and why, let your Castle Rock dentist explain things. Read on to learn why you’re never too old to have wisdom teeth removed.
Wisdom Teeth Removal & Old Age
Yes, wisdom teeth tend to emerge between 17 and 25. That’s why dentists often remove the “third molars” during one’s young adult years. Still, having these teeth extracted years or decades later is quite possible.
Firstly, you may not need extraction work at a younger age. A dentist could leave your wisdom teeth alone if your mouth has room for them. In that case, they’d only remove the extra molars when they cause problems down the line.
Next, elderly patients can (and often do) qualify for treatment. The extraction of wisdom teeth is safe and shouldn’t cause any lasting harm to your body. On the contrary, it should improve your health.
How Does Treatment Work for Older Patients?
All that said, there are risks to having wisdom teeth removed as a senior. It’s best to keep these in mind as you pursue treatment.
An example of such risks is a longer recovery. A younger body can heal from the removal in 1-3 days, but an older adult may need a week or more. Your healing rate will depend on your oral health and whether you follow the dentist’s instructions.
A senior adult could also face post-surgery extraction issues. Based on how things go, your wisdom tooth removal may lead to bleeding, infection, or a nerve injury. Wisdom tooth roots grow close to nerves, so removal can cause a knick.
The Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Whether it’s done early or late, wisdom teeth removal has many upsides. Such perks include:
- Less Dental Crowding– Without wisdom teeth taking up space, your mouth will be less crowded. You’ll then avoid alignment issues that need orthodontic correction.
- Better Oral Health – An impacted wisdom tooth can damage other teeth and cause oral cysts. However, having it removed would reduce the risk of these outcomes.
- Crucial Pain Relief – Wisdom teeth can easily inflame your gums, resulting in oral and facial sensitivity. Their removal would get rid of such unpleasant discomfort.
Since you’re never too old for wisdom teeth removal, don’t delay treatment any longer. Visit your dental provider and let your smile benefit!
About the Practice
Smile Castle Rock is based in Castle Rock, CO. Led by the acclaimed Dr. Gary Radz, our practice provides only the very best in top-tier dental care. We offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency treatments when needed. Our team also takes pride in being a certified provider of Invisalign clear aligners and wisdom teeth removal. For more details or to book a visit, please reach us on our website or by phone at (303)-663-9600.