Are you wondering at what age most people undergo wisdom teeth removal? This is a common question from patients who are either approaching the age of wisdom teeth eruption or experiencing pain from their already erupted teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, yet understanding how age plays a factor for when they should be extracted is important.
If you’re in need of a wisdom teeth removal procedure, Columbia Smiles can help. Our award-winning Howard County dental practice provides compassionate and experienced care, guiding you to make an informed decision about your oral health.
The Most Common Wisdom Teeth Removal Age
The most common time for wisdom teeth removal is during the teenage years or early adulthood (about 17–25 years of age). This is because, by this age, the wisdom teeth are typically fully grown and may be causing pain. Some people may need to have their wisdom teeth removed when they are younger or older than this age range. For example, if the wisdom teeth start to cause pain or damage to other teeth at an earlier age, it may be recommended that they are removed.
The recovery time for wisdom teeth removal will depend on the individual and may vary from person to person. Different wisdom tooth removal techniques and the number of teeth being removed can also affect recovery time.
Reasons Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
Wisdom teeth are extracted due to various reasons:
- Impacted teeth – This is when the teeth don’t fully emerge from the gum line, causing them to create a passageway for bacteria that can cause gum disease or infection.
- Crowding – Wisdom teeth can push the adjacent teeth, leading to overcrowding and resulting in crooked teeth or malocclusion.
- Pain and discomfort – Wisdom teeth can cause pain when they try to erupt above or below the gum line.
- Tooth decay – Wisdom teeth are at higher risk of developing tooth decay because they are difficult to reach for proper cleaning.
- Infection -–Infection can occur when the teeth are not fully erupted, leading to the formation of a cyst or abscess.
- Gum disease – Gum disease can result from the lack of space in the mouth that wisdom teeth can cause.
Your dentist can diagnose and provide recommendations for wisdom teeth when needed. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed.
What to Expect in Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
The wisdom teeth removal procedure starts with an initial consultation with your dentist. They will evaluate your teeth and determine if extraction is necessary. Your dentist will most likely refer you to an oral surgeon to perform the actual extraction. During the surgery, your surgeon will administer anesthesia to help you feel more comfortable. Depending on the severity of the extraction, the surgery can be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will then cut into the gum tissue to remove the wisdom tooth and stitch the wound. Afterward, the surgeon will provide instructions for post-operative care.
Reach Out to Columbia Smiles to Learn More
The removal of wisdom teeth is a common dental procedure that many patients go through. While the ideal age for wisdom teeth removal is during the teenage years or early adulthood, your dentist will track your wisdom teeth development and recommend their extraction when they are ready. Wisdom teeth can create a variety of dental issues, including impaction, overcrowding, pain, discomfort, tooth decay, infection, and gum disease. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult with your dentist on whether wisdom teeth removal is necessary. At Columbia Smiles, our team, led by Dr. Michael Hsu, takes pride in providing the best dental care and providing personalized advice to all our patients. Contact us today at 410.690.4855 to schedule an appointment and learn more about wisdom teeth removal.
