Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Affect Orthodontic Treatment?
Wisdom teeth (sometimes referred to as third molars) are the final teeth to develop. These teeth are recommended for removal when they begin to grow under the gumline or at an angle that threatens the structure of neighboring teeth. While the need for removal can sneak up on you, wisdom teeth removal does not need to derail any ongoing orthodontic treatment. In this blog, we’re going to break down why you may need to remove your wisdom teeth and what that could mean for your orthodontic treatment.
Should I remove my wisdom teeth before beginning orthodontic treatment?
If your wisdom teeth are not creating problems for the rest of your teeth, then there is no reason to remove them. Wisdom teeth should be removed:
- they’re impacted
- malpositioned
- they lack adequate space to erupt or be properly kep clean
Regular visits to oral health professionals can help keep an eye on these teeth and alert you to if/when they need to be removed.
Plenty of patients begin orthodontic treatment with their wisdom teeth in place (both erupted and unerupted). With regular x-rays and advanced technology, such as the iTero Scanner, your Hatcher & Frey orthodontist can monitor the progress of your wisdom teeth and advise you regarding removal surgery. Contact your orthodontist if you have any questions about your wisdom teeth and how they may impact your orthodontic care.
What if I have my wisdom teeth removed after beginning orthodontic treatment?
If your wisdom teeth need to be removed after you’ve started orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will make sure to adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Like most medical procedures, recovery from wisdom teeth removal surgery varies greatly. If you experience any post-op discomfort attributed to braces or aligners, let your orthodontist know. These occurrences are rare, and your doctor will be able to make short-term adjustments for increased post-op comfort. It’s important to note that if you wear retainers, you should continue wearing them after surgery to prevent teeth from shifting.
If you do need your wisdom teeth removed after you’ve begun orthodontic treatment, don’t worry! Having them removed will help you maintain orthodontic results more easily as there will be no threat of crowding.
What’s the long term impact of wisdom teeth removal during orthodontic treatment?
In most cases, wisdom teeth removal does not significantly alter an orthodontic treatment plan. Patients should invest more time in their oral hygiene habits while recovering from surgery to minimize the risk of infection. Your oral surgeon will let you know how to maintain proper oral hygiene post-op and what food and drinks to avoid in the days after the procedure.
Even though surgery can be unexpected, and seemingly inconvenient, it can be beneficial for your orthodontic care plan. Wisdom teeth can crowd neighboring teeth and cause insufficient space for movement during your orthodontic treatment. Removing them can provide more room for your teeth to shift and aid in your long term smile goals.
If you have any questions about the impact of your wisdom on orthodontic treatment, call us today! Our doctors are happy to discuss how they may or may not impact your care.