Am I Too Old to Have My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

No one looks forward to having their wisdom teeth removed, which makes it an uncomfortable truth that 50% of all Americans will have to have them extracted.  There are many reasons why someone who has wisdom teeth that are causing them pain may not have had them removed. Fear of the dentist, no dental coverage, and never making the time to get an appointment can all contribute, and if enough time passes they may wonder if it’s even possible to still have them removed.  While this procedure typically takes place by the age of 25, but it’s possible to have them removed later.

How Will You Know If It’s Time To Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?

Some of the people who have wisdom teeth come in have mouths that are capable of holding those teeth without concern, but the majority of wisdom teeth patients have to have them extracted.  For those who retain their wisdom teeth there are often difficulties associated with caring for them due to their being placed at the far back side of the mouth. In some cases wisdom teeth will fail to complete their eruption phase, a condition which can result in the presence of tumors, bacteria, and misalignment of your teeth due to pressure. These conditions can all lead to someone deciding to remove the wisdom teeth.

At What Age Is It Too Late To Remove Them?

Wisdom teeth can become removed at any point so its never too late to have them removed.  The best time to have them removed is during the life stage where the jaw has yet to complete hardening.  Any form of discomfort or pain is an indication that it’s a good idea to have your wisdom teeth extracted.  Some things to keep in mind when having your wisdom teeth extracted include:

• Never damage can result, affecting sensation from the lower lip.

• The older you are, the longer it will take for you to recovery from the surgery.  Recovery times for older patients are in excess of a week.

Since you can have your wisdom teeth removed at any stage of life you are best to have it done as quickly as possible so as to prevent the complications that can come from having them taken out later.  There is no point where it makes sense to have the wisdom teeth removed if your dentist indicates its possible to do so.

If you’re finally ready to have your wisdom teeth extracted, or are wondering it’s a procedure you need to have done, contact your dentist.  If you’re new to the Memphis, TN area and are looking for a new dentist, pick up the phone and give Dr. Adeola Faleye at the Orthodontic Clinic PC in Memphis, TN.    Their team of experts have been helping patients like you in their area, and would be happy to aid you in getting answers to your concerns over your wisdom teeth. Give a call today to make an appointment.