Getting Wisdom Teeth Pulled At 65 Years Old
As we age, dental health becomes more important than ever. One common issue that many seniors face is the need to have their wisdom teeth removed. While most people have their wisdom teeth removed in their late teens or early twenties, it is not uncommon for some individuals to still have them at 65 years old or older.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that typically emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties. They are located in the back of the mouth and can cause problems if they do not have enough room to grow in properly. Wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they are unable to break through the gums, or they can grow in at an angle and push against other teeth.
Why Might Someone Need Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are several reasons why someone might need to have their wisdom teeth removed at 65 years old:
- Pain or discomfort: Wisdom teeth that are impacted or growing in at an angle can cause pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth.
- Infection: If a wisdom tooth has partially emerged through the gums, it can create a pocket where bacteria can collect and cause an infection.
- Damage to other teeth: Wisdom teeth that grow in at an angle can push against other teeth and cause damage or misalignment.
- Crowding: If there isn't enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to grow in properly, they can cause crowding and other dental issues.
What Should You Expect During the Procedure?
Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common outpatient procedure that typically takes about an hour. Before the procedure, you will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area around the wisdom teeth. If you are feeling anxious, your dentist may also offer you a sedative to help you relax.
During the procedure, your dentist will make an incision in the gums to access the wisdom teeth. They will then remove the teeth and clean the area to prevent infection. After the procedure, you will be given gauze to bite down on to help stop the bleeding. You can expect to experience some pain and swelling for a few days after the procedure.
What Are the Risks?
While getting your wisdom teeth removed is generally safe, there are some risks involved:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection anytime you have surgery. Your dentist will provide you with antibiotics to help prevent infection.
- Nerve damage: In rare cases, the nerves in the jaw can be damaged during the procedure, causing numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or cheeks.
- Dry socket: Sometimes the blood clot that forms in the socket where the wisdom tooth was removed can become dislodged, causing pain and delaying the healing process.
Conclusion
Getting your wisdom teeth removed at 65 years old may seem daunting, but it is a common procedure that can help improve dental health and prevent future problems. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, talk to your dentist about whether or not getting your wisdom teeth removed may be right for you.
