Key Points

  • Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the very back of the mouth.
  • Not everyone has wisdom teeth as they’re non-essential teeth.
  • There are many misconceptions surrounding wisdom teeth and braces, but they typically don’t cause orthodontic problems.
  • If you’re concerned about your wisdom teeth, talk to your dentist or orthodontist.

It is possible to get braces with wisdom teeth and end up with a healthy smile, but it depends on your specific situation. Only an orthodontist can tell whether your wisdom teeth should be removed before getting braces. Sometimes, people have their wisdom teeth extracted during orthodontic treatment or even after braces are removed. The best treatment plan will vary from person to person.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the teeth at the very back of the mouth. They can also be identified as the third set of molars. Not everyone has wisdom teeth, but if they do come in, it’s usually between the ages of 17 and 21.[1] It’s possible to have four wisdom teeth (i.e., two lower teeth and two upper teeth), but some people have just one, two, or three.

What Are Wisdom Teeth For?

Some experts suggest that we are evolving to the point of no longer needing them, which could explain why some people don’t have them at all.[2] However, wisdom teeth were once useful when our food was harder to chew, and another set of molars in the back of our mouth came in handy. Today, wisdom teeth don’t serve a dedicated purpose and can be a nuisance, in some cases. Some dentists recommend removing them early in life to prevent oral health problems later on.

Potential Problems with Wisdom Teeth

Not all wisdom teeth cause problems. Some people’s wisdom teeth never emerge, making them a non-issue. Others may have all four of their wisdom teeth and never experience any issues with them. In a significant portion of the population, though, wisdom teeth do create issues. Here are some examples:

They Grow in the Wrong Way

When wisdom teeth grow in the wrong position or are misaligned, they can become a breeding ground for unwanted bacteria. This can be especially problematic for oral hygiene, as wisdom teeth are often harder to reach while brushing than other teeth.

They Become Impacted

Sometimes, wisdom teeth only partially erupt, which can cause impaction. This can result in bacteria becoming trapped underneath the gum, potentially leading to infections or tooth decay.

They Cause Pain

Wisdom teeth can sometimes be painful. This is most common when there’s not enough room in the mouth for them to grow in comfortably, or they become infected.

Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems with Braces?

Wisdom teeth are sometimes a concern for individuals when considering braces. Most of the time, these concerns are unwarranted. The only way to determine if your wisdom teeth will cause problems for your orthodontic treatment plan is with a consultation with scans and X-rays.

Can you get braces before your wisdom teeth come in?

Yes. Some people believe you should wait for wisdom teeth to erupt before getting braces. This is a misconception. In most cases, there’s no need to wait for wisdom teeth to emerge to begin orthodontic work.

Can braces be put on wisdom teeth?

If wisdom teeth have already emerged and aren’t causing problems when you get braces, your orthodontist can put braces on your wisdom teeth just like any other tooth.

Can wisdom teeth be removed after braces without shifting teeth?

Often, wisdom teeth emerge after braces are removed and orthodontic care is complete. Removing them later is usually fine and should not cause any shifting of surrounding teeth.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

There may be instances where your dentist or orthodontist recommends the extraction of your wisdom teeth. This is usually because the wisdom teeth have grown in improperly, are impacted, have cysts, or are causing overcrowding to nearby teeth. [3] If necessary, wisdom teeth can be removed before, during, or after braces.

If you do need to have your wisdom teeth extracted, your orthodontist will refer you to a dentist or oral surgeon to perform the procedure. You’ll most likely be given anesthesia to put you to sleep during the surgery. To remove your wisdom teeth, the dentist or surgeon will cut into your gums and remove some of the bone surrounding each tooth before drilling it in half.[4] You won’t feel anything during the procedure, but you can expect some pain and swelling afterwards. You’ll also need regular checkups to ensure the incision is healing correctly.

Wisdom Teeth and Braces Can Coexist

Wisdom teeth can be a part of your orthodontic journey, and it’s not always necessary to have them removed to get the perfect smile. Talk to your orthodontist about any concerns you have about your wisdom teeth before your orthodontic work. Kunik Orthodontics can help you achieve the smile of your dreams with customized braces in Austin, TX.

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