Getting braces is a common step toward a straighter smile, but what happens if your wisdom teeth start to grow during treatment?
Many people worry about whether they can remove their wisdom teeth while wearing braces.
Wisdom teeth can emerge at different angles and may push against other teeth.
This pressure can lead to discomfort, crowding, or even undo the progress made by braces.
Understanding how wisdom teeth removal fits into orthodontic treatment can help you make the right choice for your dental health.
1. What Are Wisdom Teeth, and How Do Braces Work?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25.
Some people never develop wisdom teeth, while others may have one to four of them.
Braces are orthodontic devices that apply steady pressure to move teeth into better alignment over time.
They consist of brackets attached to the teeth and connected by wires, which are adjusted regularly by an orthodontist.
If wisdom teeth erupt unexpectedly, they may cause crowding or misalignment, potentially interfering with braces.
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2. When Is the Best Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
The best time to remove wisdom teeth is when they start causing problems or are likely to create future issues.
If they are impacted, meaning they do not fully emerge, they can lead to infections, pain, or damage to surrounding teeth.
Many dentists recommend removing them in the late teenage years before the roots fully develop, making the procedure easier and reducing the risk of complications.
However, not all wisdom teeth require removal, and some people keep them without issues.
Your dentist will use X-rays to determine the right time for removal based on the position and development of your wisdom teeth.
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3. Is It Safe to Remove Wisdom Teeth While Wearing Braces?
Yes, removing wisdom teeth while wearing braces is generally safe with proper planning.
The procedure may require extra care to avoid disrupting orthodontic treatment.
Your orthodontist and oral surgeon will work together to determine the best approach based on your dental structure.
In some cases, braces may need temporary adjustments before or after the extraction.
Following post-surgery instructions, such as eating soft foods and avoiding certain activities, helps ensure a smooth recovery.
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4. Why You Need to See Both an Orthodontist and Oral Surgeon
An orthodontist focuses on straightening teeth, while an oral surgeon specializes in procedures like wisdom teeth removal.
Seeing both professionals ensures that the extraction does not interfere with your braces treatment.
The orthodontist will evaluate how the removal might affect tooth alignment, while the surgeon will determine the safest way to extract the teeth.
Communication between both specialists is crucial to prevent complications.
A combined approach helps ensure that both the extraction and orthodontic treatment proceed smoothly.
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5. How Removing Wisdom Teeth Affects Your Braces Treatment
Wisdom teeth removal may cause slight shifts in your teeth, but braces can help keep them in place.
If wisdom teeth push against other teeth, removing them can prevent crowding or misalignment.
After the extraction, your orthodontist may check if adjustments to the braces are needed.
Healing time varies, but braces can continue to work as planned with proper care.
Regular orthodontic visits will help monitor any changes in your dental alignment after the procedure.
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6. Should You Remove Wisdom Teeth Before, During, or After Braces?
The timing of wisdom teeth removal depends on your unique dental situation.
Some orthodontists recommend removing them before braces to prevent interference with alignment.
Others may suggest waiting until braces have already moved teeth into position.
If wisdom teeth do not cause problems, they may not need removal at all.
Your orthodontist and dentist will help decide the best course of action based on X-rays and dental health.
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7. Potential Risks and Complications of Removing Wisdom Teeth with Braces
Like any dental procedure, wisdom teeth removal comes with some risks.
Swelling, bleeding, and temporary pain are common after the surgery.
If not properly cared for, an infection or dry socket—a painful condition where the blood clot fails to form—can occur.
Having braces may make it slightly harder to clean around the surgical site, increasing the risk of food getting stuck.
Following all aftercare instructions, such as rinsing with salt water and avoiding hard foods, can help reduce these risks.
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8. What to Expect During Recovery from Wisdom Teeth Removal
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal usually takes about one to two weeks, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
Swelling and mild discomfort are common in the first few days, and soft foods are recommended during this period.
Your orthodontist may advise avoiding hard or sticky foods to prevent damage to your braces.
Keeping the surgical area clean is essential to prevent infections or complications.
Regular follow-ups with your orthodontist and surgeon will ensure that both your braces and the healing process remain on track.
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9. Do You Really Need to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth with Braces?
Not everyone with braces needs their wisdom teeth removed.
If wisdom teeth grow straight and do not cause pain, they may not affect orthodontic treatment.
However, if they create crowding or push against other teeth, removal may be the best option.
Your orthodontist will track their growth through X-rays and dental exams.
Deciding whether to remove them depends on their impact on your current and future dental health.
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10. How Removing Wisdom Teeth Can Benefit Your Long-Term Oral Health
Extracting wisdom teeth can prevent crowding, infections, and gum disease later in life.
If they grow in at an angle, they may damage nearby teeth, leading to pain or dental problems.
Keeping your teeth properly aligned after braces helps maintain a healthier smile.
Removal may also reduce the risk of cavities in hard-to-reach areas at the back of the mouth.
Taking action early can lead to better long-term oral health and fewer complications in the future.
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👨⚕️ Conclusion
Getting your wisdom teeth removed while wearing braces is possible with proper planning.
Your orthodontist and oral surgeon will work together to determine the best timing for the procedure.
Recovery may require special care, but braces will continue to straighten your teeth effectively.
Regular checkups will help ensure that your treatment stays on track after extraction.
With the right approach, you can maintain both a well-aligned and healthy smile.
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Looking for a trusted dental clinic in Parang, Marikina City?
Visit Tan-Mencias Dental Clinic for quality care and a friendly smile!
If you have any questions, you can call us at 9171451074, send a message on our Facebook page, or use our website’s contact form.
Our team is ready to help with your dental needs and make every visit comfortable.
Book your appointment today—we can’t wait to see your smile!