Most people undergo wisdom tooth removal in Port Moody in their teenage years or early 20s. Wisdom teeth can cause complications if not removed, such as impaction. However, in some circumstances, a dentist may have advised that wisdom tooth extraction was unnecessary. Years later, these teeth may have started to cause issues. If you still have your wisdom teeth and have started to experience problems associated with them, then it is not too late to have them removed. Here is what you need to know.
Why Removing Wisdom Teeth Earlier in Life is Preferable
Most people get their wisdom teeth removed between the ages of 15 to 25 since the roots of their teeth have not yet had time to fully develop. Since the wisdom teeth are not firmly anchored in the gum line, it is easiest for a dentist near you to remove them at this stage. The procedure is less complicated, and it makes for a short recovery time. Essentially, removing wisdom teeth earlier in life is preferable because the recovery and outcome are more likely to be positive.
Can I Still Remove My Wisdom Teeth Later in Life?
Although it is best to undergo wisdom tooth extraction near you before age 25, you can still get this procedure done later in life. Older adults may need their wisdom teeth extracted because a tooth has become infected or impacted. An impacted wisdom tooth does not have enough space to normally erupt from the gums. This can cause pain and damage to surrounding teeth. It also makes it challenging to keep the area clean, which can lead to gum disease and infection. Some symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth include:
- Jaw pain
- Swelling in the jaw
- Bleeding or tender gums
- Bad breath
- Red gums
- Unpleasant taste
- Trouble opening the mouth
It is also possible for impacted wisdom teeth to cause cysts. These can lead to damage to the jawbone, nerves, and teeth.
How to Protect Your Oral Health During and After the Procedure
It is important that you choose a highly qualified Port Moody dentist to perform your procedure. As an older adult undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, this is of particular importance. In addition to this, you also need to make sure that you disclose your full medical history to your dentist. They need to know about any medications you are taking and any pre-existing medical conditions you may have.
It usually takes about three to four days to completely recover from wisdom tooth extraction for younger patients. Older patients should plan to take about a week off of work for recovery, as their bodies may not be able to heal as quickly, and the procedure may be more complicated. Your specific recovery timeline may vary, so speak to your dentist for recommendations.
Visit Mint Dental
If you still have your wisdom teeth and are concerned about them causing problems to your oral and overall health, don’t hesitate to visit our team of dedicated dental professionals at Mint Dental. We are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have and provide you with a comprehensive examination to determine the best course of action. Please contact us to book your appointment today.