Wisdom Teeth in Older Adults

Let’s face it, wisdom teeth can be the ultimate party crashers in your mouth. These third molars are supposed to majestically erupt and join the chewing party sometime in your late teens or early twenties. But for many of us, wisdom teeth in older adults can be more like unwelcome guests who show up late and cause a whole lot of trouble.

Traditionally, the removal of them happens during this younger age range. There is more jawbone growth at this time, making the procedure potentially easier and with a faster recovery. But what happens if you are past this age bracket and your wisdom teeth are still hanging around, uninvited? Does that mean you’re stuck with them forever?

Here at Green Valley Smile Care, we will shed some light on it in older adults. We’ll answer the burning question: is it ever too late to have them removed?

Wisdom Teeth: A Modern Mishap

Our ancestors likely had plenty of space in their jaws to accommodate wisdom teeth. Their diet, consisting of tougher and more fibrous foods, required those extra chompers for grinding. However, our modern diet of softer, processed foods has led to smaller jaws. This often leaves little room for wisdom teeth to erupt properly, leading to a condition called impaction.

Impacted teeth can cause a multitude of problems, including:

• Pain and discomfort: This is a classic sign, especially when the wisdom tooth is trying to push through the gum.
• Crowding: Wisdom teeth can put pressure on your other teeth, causing misalignment and shifting.
• Infection: Impacted teeth are difficult to clean, which can lead to gum disease and abscesses.
• Damage to nearby teeth: Impacted teeth can press on or even damage the roots of your other teeth.

Should Older Adult Get Wisdom Teeth Removed?

The short answer: It depends. While wisdom teeth removal is generally recommended in your teens or early twenties, it’s certainly not out of the question for older adults. In fact, wisdom teeth can still cause problems even after years of seemingly peaceful coexistence.

Here are some signs that your wisdom teeth might need to be extracted, even if you’re an older adult:

• You’re experiencing pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth.
• Your dentist notices signs of infection or gum disease around your wisdom teeth.
• Your wisdom teeth are causing damage to your other teeth.
• You have frequent bad breath or difficulty chewing.
• Dental X-rays show that your wisdom teeth are impacted.

Wisdom Teeth Removal for Older Adults: What to Expect

If you and your dentist in Henderson decide that removal is the best course of action, there’s no need to worry excessively. While the procedure might be slightly more complex due to denser bone structure in older adults, modern dentistry offers safe and effective options.

Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:

• Consultation: Your dentist will discuss your medical history, perform a thorough examination, and take X-rays to assess the situation.
• Procedure: Removal is typically done under anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain. Depending on the complexity, the procedure might be performed by your dentist or an oral surgeon.
• Recovery: Expect some swelling, soreness, and discomfort after the surgery. Your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions on post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery.

The Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal for Older Adults

Even though wisdom teeth removal might seem like an unnecessary procedure at a later stage in life, there are several advantages to consider:

• Improved oral health: Removing problematic wisdom teeth can prevent future complications like infection, gum disease, and damage to other teeth.
• Reduced pain and discomfort: Say goodbye to the throbbing, aching wisdom teeth that disrupt your daily life.
• Easier dental hygiene: Impacted wisdom teeth can be tricky to clean, but their removal allows for better overall oral hygiene.
• Peace of mind: Knowing that you’ve addressed a potential oral health issue can bring a sense of relief and peace of mind.

Finding the Right Dentist in Henderson

If you’re concerned about your wisdom teeth and live in the Henderson area, look no further than Green Valley Smile Care, your emergency dentist in Henderson. Our friendly and experienced team is committed to providing comprehensive dental care, including the removal. We understand that every patient is unique, and we’ll tailor a treatment plan that’s right for you, regardless of your age.