If you’re currently in your 50s and still have your wisdom teeth, you may assume that the opportunity to have them removed has long passed you by. After all, wisdom tooth extraction is usually recommended for older teens or individuals in their early 20s. But is there really any such thing as being too old for this procedure?
Why Might You Need to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Taken Out?
Since the wisdom teeth erupt much later than the other permanent teeth, there often isn’t enough room for them in the mouth. This can cause them to become impacted (meaning they are trapped under the gums). Not only can impacted wisdom teeth cause significant pain, but they may push against the neighboring teeth, damaging them.
Of course, sometimes the wisdom teeth do manage to erupt properly. However, because they are located near the back of the mouth, it can be hard to brush and floss them as thoroughly as you need to. If you aren’t able to keep your wisdom teeth clean, you could be at a higher risk for cavities and gum disease.
Can Older Adults Still Have Their Wisdom Teeth Taken Out?
The simple fact of the matter is that wisdom tooth extraction doesn’t have an upper age limit; you can have it performed no matter how old you are. That said, the wisdom teeth have a tendency to become more firmly attached to the jaw as you age. So while removing them is still a viable option, the procedure may be more complex for older patients. Fortunately, it can still be performed safely as long as it’s handled by a trained expert.
Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary in Your Case?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed; some people are able to keep them for the rest of their lives without issue. But if your wisdom teeth are causing you pain or seem to have a negative impact on your oral health, it’s typically best to have them extracted.
If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth, you should speak to your dentist. After thoroughly examining your mouth and carefully considering your situation, they can determine whether an extraction is truly right for your smile.
In short, there really isn’t such a thing as being too old for a wisdom tooth extraction. Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist about this procedure; it could prove to be a vital step for protecting your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew R. Glynn earned his dental degree at The Ohio State University. He prides himself on being a dentist whom patients can trust to provide them with personalized, high-quality care. At his current practice, Glynn Dental of Reynoldsburg, he offers comfortable extractions for impacted or otherwise problematic wisdom teeth. If you think you might need to have your wisdom teeth removed, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Glynn by visiting his website or calling (614) 864-4618.