For anyone considering or already undergoing orthodontic treatment, one common concern that arises is the impact of wisdom teeth on braces. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, and they can affect the overall health and alignment of your teeth.
But how exactly do wisdom teeth factor into braces? Do they need to be removed before treatment? Will they shift your teeth after your braces come off? Let’s dive into these questions and explore the relationship between wisdom teeth and orthodontic care.
1. What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people may never have issues with their wisdom teeth, while others may experience pain, misalignment, or infection due to the lack of space in their mouth.
Because wisdom teeth are often problematic, dentists and orthodontists monitor them closely, especially for patients who are undergoing or have completed orthodontic treatment like braces.
2. Can You Get Braces with Wisdom Teeth?
Yes, you can get braces even if you still have your wisdom teeth or if they haven't erupted yet. In most cases, wisdom teeth don’t interfere with orthodontic treatment because braces are typically applied to straighten the teeth that are already present in your mouth.
However, every patient is different. Your orthodontist will evaluate your teeth and jaw to determine whether your wisdom teeth might cause issues during treatment. Here’s how wisdom teeth might factor in depending on their stage of development:
Before Eruption: If your wisdom teeth haven’t erupted yet, they likely won’t affect your braces treatment. However, your orthodontist will monitor their development to ensure they don’t interfere with your newly straightened teeth once they start to come in.
Partially Erupted: If your wisdom teeth are in the process of erupting while you have braces, they may cause discomfort or slight crowding. Your orthodontist may adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Fully Erupted: If your wisdom teeth have already fully erupted, your orthodontist will examine their position to ensure they don’t interfere with your braces treatment. In some cases, wisdom teeth that are fully erupted and properly aligned won’t require removal.
3. Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed Before Braces?
Not necessarily. Whether or not your wisdom teeth need to be removed before getting braces depends on a few factors, such as the available space in your mouth, the alignment of your wisdom teeth, and whether they pose a risk of shifting your other teeth.
Your orthodontist will assess the situation during your initial consultation. Here are some possible scenarios:
No Removal Needed: If there’s enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to emerge without causing crowding, you may not need to have them removed before getting braces.
Removal May Be Recommended: If your wisdom teeth are impacted (trapped beneath the gum line or growing at an angle), or if they’re likely to crowd or shift your other teeth, your orthodontist may recommend having them removed before starting braces.
Removal After Braces: Sometimes, wisdom teeth are monitored during treatment and only need to be removed after the braces come off if they pose a problem or are likely to cause shifting.
4. Will Wisdom Teeth Shift Your Teeth After Braces?
One common concern among people who have had braces is whether their wisdom teeth will cause their newly straightened teeth to shift after treatment.
The good news is that wisdom teeth are not usually the primary cause of teeth shifting after braces. While wisdom teeth can exert some pressure as they come in, teeth naturally shift over time due to daily wear and tear, the movement of the tongue, and other factors.
To prevent any post-treatment shifting, orthodontists often recommend wearing retainers after your braces come off. Retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions and prevent any unwanted movement, regardless of whether or not you have wisdom teeth.
Key Takeaway: Wearing your retainer as directed by your orthodontist is crucial for maintaining your straight smile, regardless of the presence of wisdom teeth.
5. What Happens If Wisdom Teeth Are Removed During Braces?
In some cases, your orthodontist may recommend removing your wisdom teeth during your braces treatment. This could be due to a lack of space in your mouth, or if your wisdom teeth are impacted or growing in at an angle.
If wisdom teeth extraction is necessary, it typically won’t interfere with your orthodontic treatment. Most orthodontists will work with your oral surgeon to ensure the extraction is timed appropriately, so it doesn’t disrupt the progress of your braces.
What to Expect:
Minimal Impact on Treatment: If your wisdom teeth need to be removed while you have braces, your orthodontist will make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary. In most cases, the extraction won’t delay the overall treatment timeline.
Healing Period: After wisdom teeth removal, you’ll need a few days to recover before resuming normal activities. Your orthodontist may advise avoiding certain foods and being cautious with your braces during the healing period.
6. Key Takeaways for Braces and Wisdom Teeth
To recap, here are the key things to keep in mind when it comes to braces and wisdom teeth:
Wisdom Teeth Don’t Always Need to Be Removed: Whether or not you need your wisdom teeth removed depends on how they’re growing and whether they pose a risk to your other teeth.
Braces Can Be Applied with or Without Wisdom Teeth: You can still get braces even if your wisdom teeth haven’t erupted yet or are partially erupted.
Retainers Help Prevent Shifting: After your braces come off, wearing a retainer as directed is essential to keep your teeth from shifting—wisdom teeth are only one of many factors that can influence movement.
Consult with Your Orthodontist: Every patient is different, and your orthodontist will provide a personalized recommendation based on your unique dental structure.
Conclusion
If you’re considering braces and are worried about how wisdom teeth may affect your treatment, rest assured that your orthodontist will guide you through the process. Whether you need them removed or not, wisdom teeth don’t have to be a barrier to achieving the straight, healthy smile you’ve always wanted. By working closely with your orthodontist and following their advice, you can enjoy a successful braces journey and long-term dental health!