When parents in the Fort Walton Beach area bring in their kids for braces, the most common questions we get include things like, “Will they hurt?”, “How long will I have them on?”, and “What about when my wisdom teeth start growing?” Most people wear braces between the ages of 12 and 17. The main purpose is usually to correct tooth and jaw problems. But the relationship between wisdom teeth and braces is not an especially common topic. Wisdom teeth play a critical role in your overall oral health and won’t erupt until you’re in your late teens or 20s.
What are wisdom teeth anyway?
Wisdom teeth make up the third set of adult molars. Some people have theirs come in all at once while others have theirs come in partially or in stages. Our ancestors used to eat hard-to-chew foods such as meat, nuts and roots. In response to this, they needed powerful and large jaws. But with time, our diet has changed, and so have our jaws. The effect of this is that while some people may have proper wisdom teeth alignment, others have to experience discomfort and pain.
Do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed?
If you have received braces in the Fort Walton Beach area, it’s not always necessary to remove your wisdom teeth. However, it can assert pressure on the adjacent teeth if there’s not enough room. You can also suffer swollen gums if there’s impaction behind the last tooth. Dr. Bowman can advise you on such problems, including suggestions for tooth removal.
Will wisdom teeth ruin my orthodontic progress?
If your child received braces in Fort Walton Beach, you could start noticing a relapse in tooth position. Surprisingly, the relapse is not inevitably caused by the growth of wisdom teeth. The main reason for this is age. As we age, our teeth begin to drift alongside the usual wear and tear. Jaw growth can also cause this undesirable effect of teeth pressing towards the tongue. This is the principal reason why we would remind you over and over to wear your retainer once you get your braces off.
Wisdom tooth extraction may be necessary if the teeth are trapped beneath the gum line or if they erupt unusually. An oral surgeon can help with this procedure.
Not every person with braces needs to get their wisdom teeth extracted. During a consultation at the office of Brodie Bowman, DMD in Fort Walton Beach or Niceville, you can learn more about your unique case. Contact us today to book an appointment.