It is common for teens and young adults to get their wisdom teeth removed. This procedure can prevent future oral health problems, and it is almost regarded as a rite of passage in some circles. But what if you are a bit older and have not yet had your wisdom teeth removed? Is it too late for you to undergo this treatment? In this blog post, learn what you should know about getting this procedure at a more mature age.
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Usually Removed When Patients Are Young
There are a few reasons why wisdom tooth extractions are typically performed on younger individuals. For one, the roots of wisdom teeth are not fully developed in adolescents and young adults. This makes the teeth easier to remove and reduces the risk of complications. Additionally, younger patients tend to heal more quickly and experience less discomfort during the recovery process.
Another reason is that wisdom teeth often cause problems as they grow in. Teens and young adults are more likely to experience issues such as impaction (the teeth getting stuck beneath the gumline), crowding, and infections. Removing wisdom teeth early can prevent these problems and help young people to maintain overall oral health.
No Upper Age Limit for Wisdom Tooth Removal
Even though wisdom tooth removal is common among teens and young adults, the reality is that there is no upper age limit for this procedure. Wisdom teeth can cause problems at any age, and removing them can still provide significant benefits.
If you are experiencing pain or swelling around your wisdom teeth, it is time to visit your dentist or an oral surgeon to get them checked out. You should also seek a consultation if it is difficult for you to clean your wisdom teeth or you have any other concerns that relate to them.
Wisdom Tooth Removal for Mature Adults
As a mature adult, your experience with wisdom tooth removal may be different from that of younger folks. First, the roots of your teeth are likely fully developed, which can make the extraction a bit more complex and invasive. However, experienced oral surgeons know how to handle these situations and will take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe procedure.
You might also take slightly longer to recover compared to a younger person. Your body’s natural healing processes slow down with age, so it is important to follow your dentist’s post-operative care instructions closely. This might include taking medication, avoiding certain foods, and resting. With proper care, you can still achieve a smooth recovery.
You are never too old for wisdom tooth removal! This procedure can support the oral health of patients of virtually all ages.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Steve Koo and William Shepard are the highly skilled oral surgeons in our practice. Under their expert leadership, our team regularly removes wisdom teeth for teens, young adults, and older adults as well. We take every precaution to make sure the procedure is as safe and comfortable as possible. To learn more about this service or to request a consultation, get in touch with our Katy, TX, team at 832-353-1100.