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Wisdom Teeth And Orthodontics

Most of our adult teeth grow between the ages of six and thirteen. But what about our wisdom teeth? These large molars at the very back of our mouths don’t usually erupt until our late teens years. Undergoing orthodontic treatment involves moving your teeth into the correct alignment. So what happens if you have already completed your treatment before your wisdom teeth arrive? What impact may these final four teeth have on that perfect smile you worked so hard to achieve? All the answers are included in this blog from iSmile Orthodontics.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Completing your set of 32 teeth, wisdom teeth are the names given to the four large molars which grow through at the very back of each side of our upper and lower jaws. Their name comes from the fact that they erupt much later than the rest of our teeth; when we are between the ages of 16 and 21. This is the age of adult maturity, including the maturation of our intellect or wisdom. These teeth were historically used to chew rough food, eaten by our ancestors many tens of thousands of years ago. However, the softer diet humans consume now means that wisdom teeth no longer needed in the way they once were. People can eat perfectly easily without these four latecomers if they either don’t develop or are extracted once they have erupted.

Did you know, approximately 15-20% of the population never develop at least one wisdom tooth. Some people don’t have any at all!

Why Does Early Diagnosis Matter?
Just as it is important to take children to see the orthodontist at an early age, it is a good idea to make an appointment at iSmile Orthodontics as soon as you feel your first wisdom teeth erupting. An early diagnosis of how your new teeth may affect your perfect smile is the best way to make sure your teeth remain straight. Possible recommendations your orthodontist may suggest include a fixed orthodontic retainer (attached to the back of your teeth) or wearing a removable orthodontic retainer.

How Might Wisdom Teeth Affect My Smile?
The eruption of your wisdom teeth is the appearance of four large teeth in your mouth. Naturally, this can sometimes cause a shift in your other teeth as they move to accommodate their new friends. If you have already undergone orthodontic treatment before your wisdom teeth grow through, you may find that your teeth begin to move back into their old positions as they are pushed aside.

Is ExtractionAn Option?
The removal of wisdom teeth is not uncommon. Many patients elect to have these teeth extracted while others need to be removed for oral health reasons. While it is not possible to provide a one-size-fits-all diagnosis here, if you are concerned that your wisdom teeth are negatively affecting your smile, make an appointment with iSmile Orthodontics to discuss your extraction options.

More Questions?
If you have any more questions or want an answer tailored to your teeth and mouth, make an appointment with iSmile Orthodontics today and discover how your wisdom teeth may affect your orthodontic treatment.

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