Wisdom teeth are usually removed around the time they emerge, which is usually at some point between age 17 and age 25. Certain people, however, keep them well into their 50s. But what if your third molars start to cause you problems later in life? Will it be too late to have them removed by that point? Here’s what older adults need to know about wisdom teeth extraction.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Often Need to Be Extracted?
In many cases, wisdom teeth that are unable to erupt properly can cause significant pain. They can also potentially cause a number of other unpleasant symptoms, such as:
- Becoming impacted (meaning they are unable to fully emerge from beneath the gums).
- Bleeding or swelling gum tissue.
- Damage to the other teeth.
- A bad taste in the mouth.
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away.
- A swollen or tender jaw.
In general, it’s best to have your wisdom teeth removed as soon as possible if they cause any of the issues listed above.
Is There an Upper Age Limit for Having Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Not at all! It’s entirely possible for older patients to have their wisdom teeth extracted. In fact, it is highly recommended that they do so if they have started experiencing any serious complications.
It should be noted that the extraction process is often more complex for older adults. This is because the roots of the wisdom teeth become more firmly embedded in the jaw over time, which can make them more challenging to remove. Additionally, older patients usually need more time to heal. Your oral surgeon can give you a more detailed picture of how your age may affect the extraction process.
What Can You Expect from Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
The first step is for your oral surgeon to confirm that you’re a candidate for wisdom teeth extraction. They’ll gather information about your medical and dental history as well as any medications you may be taking.
The surgery will normally take around an hour, although it can vary from patient to patient. In order to take out the wisdom teeth, the gums will need to be opened, and some bone might have to be removed. In certain cases, dividing the wisdom teeth into sections can make the extraction process easier.
After the procedure, you will likely need someone else to drive you home. For about 3 to 5 days, you may experience some discomfort and swelling in your mouth. Plan on eating soft foods while you’re still recovering.
No matter how old you are, it’s always important to make the right decisions for your oral health. Reach out to your oral surgeon if you believe that you might need a wisdom teeth extraction soon.
About the Author
Dr. Timothy Gutierrez has served as the president of the New Mexico Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He was also previously the Chief of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Division at Presbyterian Hospital as well as St. Joseph Hospital. He welcomes patients of all ages and is happy to offer wisdom teeth extraction whenever necessary. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Gutierrez at Nob Hill Oral and Facial Surgery of Albuquerque, visit his website or call (505) 881-7373.