Ideally, one gets their wisdom teeth taken out well before the age of 40. This is due to the fact that these teeth can cause a patient untold issues if they’re left to linger in the mouth. Below, we cover key wisdom teeth issues after 40 and what to do about them.
Unfortunately, not everyone takes the initiative on this process, and fails to remove their wisdom teeth when it’s ideal, like in their teens and 20’s.
Wisdom Teeth Issues After 40: What to Do
If you still have your wisdom teeth and you’re over the age of 40, then take a look at this guide that describes what you should do to relieve yourself of your discomfort through wisdom teeth removal.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are a set of teeth located in the back of the mouth. The reason these teeth receive their name is that they typically erupt into the jaw in late adolescence or early adulthood. Wisdom teeth are the last and third molars in the back of the mouth.
A wisdom tooth is an example of a vestigial structure—a biological component that has outlived its evolutionary purpose. This aligns them with the tailbone, another old bone in our body.
Part of the reason that wisdom teeth issues arise after the age of 40 is that there are persistent myths that these types of problems don’t develop after a certain age. Unfortunately, this just isn’t true.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Issues Arise After 40?
There are several reasons that wisdom teeth issues can develop after the age of 40. Some of the common problems that can cause wisdom teeth issues include the following:
- Changes in the Gums: Older adults are prone to developing gum issues. These, in turn, can impact your wisdom teeth.
- Shifting Teeth: As you age, your teeth may shift in the mouth, which can cause issues with your wisdom teeth.
- Neglected Dental Care: Failing to take care of your teeth can cause wisdom teeth problems to develop.
- Chronic Health Problems: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can make one more susceptible to having wisdom teeth issues.
Signs That Wisdom Teeth Issues Are Developing
There are certain signs that signal that wisdom teeth issues are developing. Staying apprised of these issues can help one stay on top of whether they are in process. Some of the following are considered symptoms of these issues:
- Difficulty eating: If you experience discomfort and pain while you chew, it could mean that you have a wisdom tooth problem developing.
- Halitosis: Infected wisdom teeth can cause one to have bad breath.
- Swelling: Noticeable swelling in certain areas of the jaw can be a clear sign of an impacted wisdom tooth.
- Pain and Discomfort: Wisdom teeth problems can manifest as mild aches and pain. Pain around the jaw or ears can be particularly indicative.
Diagnosing Your Issues
If you’re experiencing painful symptoms, you should immediately schedule an appointment with an oral surgeon to receive a diagnosis of your issue. This will typically involve the following steps:
- Treatment planning: Striking up a plan surrounding your treatment will be done after the initial tests and images are composed.
- Diagnostic tests: Your surgeon will take x-rays and 3D imaging to get a clearer picture of the kinds of issues that are taking place in the mouth.
- Initial Consultation: During this time period, your oral surgeon will perform an in-depth discussion to more clearly understand your symptoms and medical history, in order to make better calls regarding the next steps.
You may also be administered antibiotics as a test treatment depending on the severity of your issues.
After Your Procedure: Taking Care
After your extraction, there are certain steps you should take to facilitate your recovery process. Some of the following are considered beneficial steps:
- Dietary changes: Try to avoid hard or sticky foods right after your initial procedure. Sticking to soft foods and liquids can help to facilitate your healing process.
- Pain management: There will likely be some degree of pain or discomfort after your procedure. Simple anti-inflammatories or pain medications can help reduce these feelings.
- Good oral hygiene: Staying true to your basic oral hygiene practices should help you maintain your results and prevent reinfection in the future after time has passed. Brushing and flossing are examples of such procedures.
The Best Dentist in Encino
Encino Family Dental is a patient’s best choice for high-quality dental work in Encino. If you’re having issues with your wisdom teeth that you should have removed some time ago, contact our family dentist today in order to schedule an appointment and relieve your pain today.
