Wisdom Teeth FAQ

So Do I Really Have To Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There is no “magic rule book” in life that says you must have your wisdom teeth removed. In other words, removal of these teeth has nothing to do with you living to be 70 instead of 65. In almost all cases wisdom tooth removal is elective surgery. Very rarely could it be considered a critical, life-saving procedure. You don't have to do anything until YOU choose to do so. Unless you have an active problem such as pain, swelling, infection, or soreness, the removal of your wisdom teeth is best viewed as a preventive measure, designed to keep you from having problems in the future. And although we cannot predict the future any more than you can, it is possible to identify potential future problems and make appropriate recommendations.

At your consultation visit we will examine your mouth and review your x-ray with you in great detail to determine IF you will benefit from having your wisdom teeth removed. Based on our findings, we will make certain recommendations and we will certainly answer all your questions. It is important to us that you are well informed and that you understand all your options.

What Is The Best Age To Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If you do not have enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to erupt into proper position it is best to have them removed before the wisdom teeth are fully developed. For some patients this may be as early as 13 or 14, for others it may be as late as 17 or 18 years old. Without a doubt, younger patients (teenagers) heal faster, and in a more predictable fashion, and with fewer complications than older patients.

What If I Don't Have Them Removed Now?
Many patients, especially in years past, were told to take a “wait and see” approach regarding their wisdom teeth. Many patients who did not have adequate room for their wisdom teeth developed problems previously mentioned. The problem with taking a “wait and see” approach is that if it becomes necessary to remove a wisdom tooth in your thirties or beyond, it is much more difficult for you as the patient. For patients older than thirty the post-operative course is usually more prolonged, and the potential complications are much greater.

If you do not have your impacted wisdom teeth removed in your teenage years or early twenties, it may be advisable to take a “wait and see” approach and treat each wisdom tooth on an individual basis, removing only that one individual wisdom tooth if problems such as cyst formation, gum disease, bone loss, decay, infection, swelling or pain develop. Certainly a “one size fits all” approach does not apply to wisdom tooth removal. At your consultation appointment we will make recommendations based on your individual situation.

When Is the Best Time To Schedule My Surgery?
When you schedule your surgery is entirely up to you. Of course, there is never a good time to have your wisdom teeth removed. Life is busy and having your wisdom teeth removed is going to interrupt your schedule and be an inconvenience, but obviously there are certain times that are less inconvenient than others. Summer and school vacations are popular times for our school age patients, and long weekends tend to work best for our older patients. With proper planning we can minimize the inconvenience and maximize the time you have to recover. We will work closely with your individual schedule and find a time that is best for you.

back to the top»