Should I Get Wisdom Teeth Removed Before Invisalign
When it comes to straightening your teeth and achieving a beautiful, confident smile, Invisalign has become a popular choice for many patients. However, if you have wisdom teeth, you may be wondering whether or not you should have them removed before starting Invisalign treatment. Here, we'll take a closer look at this question and provide some helpful information to guide your decision.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop in your mouth. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 and are located at the back of your mouth, behind your second molars. While some people have no problems with their wisdom teeth, others may experience pain, infection, or other issues.
Why Might Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed?
There are several reasons why your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend that your wisdom teeth be removed. These include:
- Impacted wisdom teeth that are unable to emerge properly, which can cause pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth.
- Crowding of other teeth due to limited space in the mouth.
- Infection or decay of the wisdom teeth themselves.
Can Wisdom Teeth Affect Invisalign Treatment?
While wisdom teeth can be removed both before and during Invisalign treatment, it is generally recommended that they be removed beforehand to avoid potential complications. If your wisdom teeth are causing pain or are impacted, they can interfere with the movement of your other teeth during Invisalign treatment, causing delays or other issues. Additionally, if your wisdom teeth need to be removed during your Invisalign treatment, you may need to pause your treatment until the extraction site has healed.
When Should Wisdom Teeth be Removed?
The timing of wisdom teeth removal will depend on your individual situation. Your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend removal if your wisdom teeth are causing pain or other issues, or if they are likely to cause problems in the future. In some cases, it may be recommended that wisdom teeth be removed preventatively in order to avoid potential issues down the line.
Conclusion
If you are considering Invisalign treatment and have wisdom teeth, it is important to discuss your options with your dentist or orthodontist. Depending on your individual situation, it may be recommended that your wisdom teeth be removed before beginning treatment in order to ensure the best possible outcome.