Wisdom teeth and braces are often discussed together, especially when it comes to dental treatments that involve the alignment of teeth. Many people wonder how wisdom teeth may affect braces and whether it’s necessary to remove them before or during orthodontic treatment. Here’s an in-depth look at the relationship between wisdom teeth and braces, along with why your dentist or orthodontist may recommend certain steps before, during, or after your orthodontic treatment.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back of your mouth. They typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, between the ages of 17 and 25. However, not everyone has wisdom teeth, and some individuals may have fewer than four or none at all.
Wisdom teeth are considered vestigial, meaning they were once useful for our ancestors who needed extra molars to chew through raw plant material or tough meats. In modern times, these teeth are often not necessary for chewing, and they are more likely to cause problems due to lack of space in the jaw.
What Are Braces?
Braces are orthodontic devices used to straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and improve the overall function and appearance of a person’s smile. They are typically made up of brackets, wires, and elastic bands that work together to gradually move teeth into proper alignment over time.
Orthodontic treatment can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the severity of the dental issues being addressed. The process can be uncomfortable at times, but the end result is a well-aligned set of teeth that can help with both aesthetics and oral health.
The Impact of Wisdom Teeth on Braces
When it comes to orthodontics, wisdom teeth can pose certain challenges. The impact varies depending on individual circumstances, but here are some of the potential effects that wisdom teeth may have on braces:
1. Crowding of Teeth
Wisdom teeth are known to cause overcrowding, particularly if there is not enough space in the mouth for them to emerge properly. In some cases, this can undo some of the progress made by braces. If the wisdom teeth are pushing against adjacent teeth, they may cause misalignment or contribute to a relapse of a previously straightened smile.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge properly, they can become impacted. This means they are unable to fully break through the gums, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. If impacted wisdom teeth are left untreated, they can push on the teeth near them, potentially disrupting the alignment achieved by braces.
3. Changes in the Jaw Alignment
If the wisdom teeth continue to erupt or push against existing teeth while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, they can affect the alignment of the bite. This could complicate the goal of your braces, especially if the movement of the teeth is interrupted by new pressure from the emerging wisdom teeth.
4. Complicating Orthodontic Treatment
Sometimes, wisdom teeth are located in areas of the mouth that interfere with the process of straightening the teeth. For example, wisdom teeth may be positioned in such a way that they make it harder for the orthodontist to use certain appliances, or they may even obstruct the movement of other teeth that need to be aligned.
Should You Remove Wisdom Teeth Before Getting Braces?
One common question is whether wisdom teeth need to be removed before starting orthodontic treatment. The answer depends on the individual situation and the specific advice from your dentist or orthodontist. Here are some reasons why wisdom teeth might be removed before braces:
1. Preventing Future Complications
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, or there’s not enough space for them to grow in without causing damage to adjacent teeth, your orthodontist may recommend removal before getting braces. By removing them in advance, you prevent possible issues that could interfere with treatment, such as crowding or shifting.
2. Improving the Success of Treatment
By removing wisdom teeth before beginning treatment, you can help ensure that there is adequate space for your other teeth to move into place without obstruction. This can lead to a smoother and more predictable orthodontic process.
3. Reducing the Risk of Infection
If your wisdom teeth are already partially erupted, they could potentially lead to infections or gum issues. Removing them beforehand can eliminate this risk and help reduce complications during the course of your braces treatment.
4. Fewer Complications Later
Removing wisdom teeth early on can also prevent the need for extractions during the course of braces treatment. Having them removed while you’re not undergoing active orthodontic treatment can minimize potential complications or disruptions to your braces.
Can You Get Braces with Wisdom Teeth Still in Place?
In many cases, you can still undergo orthodontic treatment while your wisdom teeth are in place, particularly if they are healthy, properly positioned, and not causing any immediate issues. If your wisdom teeth are not affecting the alignment of your other teeth or your bite, your orthodontist may decide to leave them in place and monitor them throughout the course of treatment.
However, if wisdom teeth begin to cause problems, your orthodontist may suggest removal later on in the treatment. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the braces to account for changes in the alignment caused by emerging wisdom teeth.
Timing of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Relation to Braces
If your orthodontist recommends the removal of your wisdom teeth, they will likely suggest a specific timeline for this procedure in relation to your braces. In most cases, it’s ideal to remove the wisdom teeth before braces are placed, but some people may need to have them removed after the braces are put in place. Your orthodontist will take into account the position of your wisdom teeth, your overall oral health, and the stage of your orthodontic treatment when determining the right timing.
In general, removing wisdom teeth should be done with enough time before braces are removed to ensure that the area heals properly and no complications arise during the final stages of treatment.
Conclusion
The relationship between wisdom teeth and braces is a crucial consideration in planning your orthodontic treatment. While some people may not experience any issues with their wisdom teeth, others may need to have them removed to ensure the best possible outcome for their braces. If your wisdom teeth are likely to cause crowding, misalignment, or other complications, it’s important to discuss removal with your orthodontist as part of your treatment plan.
By addressing wisdom teeth early on, you can help ensure that your braces treatment goes smoothly and that you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted.