ONE OF THE MOST common questions orthodontists hear is, “Will my wisdom teeth affect my straight smile?” Whether you are preparing to begin orthodontic treatment or are already wearing braces or aligners, it is important to understand how wisdom teeth may relate to your orthodontic care. Although every patient is different, there are several key facts to know about how wisdom teeth and orthodontics work together.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people never develop wisdom teeth, while others never get all four. For those who do get their wisdom teeth, because they appear after the rest of the adult teeth are in place, they sometimes cause discomfort, crowding, or other dental problems.
Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth. Many people do not have enough room in their jaws for these teeth to come in properly. When space is limited, wisdom teeth may become impacted, partially erupt through the gums, or grow at an angle. These issues can cause pain, swelling, and even infection.
Can Wisdom Teeth Affect Orthodontic Results?
A common concern is that wisdom teeth will cause other teeth to shift and undo the results of orthodontic treatment. However, wisdom teeth typically do not create enough pressure to move front teeth out of alignment. In most cases, crowding that occurs after braces is due to natural changes in the mouth or failure to wear a retainer as instructed.
Even though wisdom teeth do not typically cause teeth to shift, they can still affect your oral health. Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth can lead to pain or put pressure on nearby teeth. In such cases, your orthodontist or dentist may recommend removing them to avoid complications during or after treatment.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Orthodontists and general dentists use X-rays to monitor the position and development of wisdom teeth. If your dental team sees signs that your wisdom teeth could cause problems, such as impaction or crowding, they may suggest removing them.
Sometimes removal is recommended before starting braces or clear aligner therapy to ensure a smoother treatment process. In other situations, your orthodontist may wait until treatment is complete to see how the wisdom teeth behave. If the teeth are not causing discomfort or damage, they may not need to be removed at all.
Retainers Are Key
One of the best ways to maintain your smile after orthodontic treatment is by wearing your retainer. Whether or not you have wisdom teeth, a retainer helps keep your teeth in their proper positions. Consistent retainer wear is the most effective way to prevent future shifting, especially in the years following treatment.
Protect Your Smile With Smart Planning
Wisdom teeth do not usually cause orthodontic results to relapse, but they can affect your oral health in other ways. The best approach is to stay in close contact with your orthodontist and general dentist. Together, they will monitor your wisdom teeth and determine the best timing for any necessary intervention.
