A common question parents have about their teenagers is “When should we get his or her wisdom teeth removed?” Keep reading to learn more about wisdom teeth in general and the best times to get them removed.
Wise Up!
So, what exactly are wisdom teeth, you may ask. It is thought that wisdom teeth, a vestigial part of our body – are a part of our body that is no longer necessary due to the evolution of the human body. Because of the wear and tear on teeth of our distant, distant ancestors, like cavemen; teeth were more likely to fall out over time causing the need for another set of molars.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Have to Be Removed?
Today, we can take such better care of our teeth, that these extra molars are not needed. The eruption of wisdom teeth may cause overcrowding in our mouth, or it is possible for them to come in at odd angles. When that happens, your wisdom teeth are known as impacted and it can cause all kinds of problems. It is estimated that as many as 85% of people will need their wisdom teeth removed to avoid potential complications. But guess what, not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed – and some individuals never even develop them!
What Age Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Come Out?
Through x-rays, we will be able to see how your child’s wisdom teeth are developing. If your child is experiencing pain or other complications associated with wisdom teeth, they can be extracted at any age. Though typically, the targeted age range is between 18 and 24. The main factor in when a wisdom tooth can be safely extracted is making sure that the root has developed to about two-thirds of its full size. It is possible that could happen before a patient turns 18 because we all develop at different speeds!
We’re Here to Help!
Depending on your child’s age, their wisdom teeth are already going to be on Dr. Forrester’s radar to keep tabs on. Contact us if your child starts to complain of gum pain or feeling like there is pressure in the back of their mouth. Also, if they notice that a wisdom tooth has started to break through the gumline, let us know sooner rather than later.