My teenager’s wisdom teeth are coming in sideways. Should I get them out now or later?
If your teenager’s wisdom teeth are coming in sideways, you may wonder whether removal is necessary or if you should wait. The decision depends on factors like the degree of impaction, your teen’s age, and potential complications. At Bayswater Dentist, VIC, we’re here to help you understand when it might be time for removal.
What Does It Mean When Wisdom Teeth Come in Sideways?
Sideways wisdom teeth, often impacted, don’t have enough space to emerge properly. They may come in at an angle or remain trapped beneath the gum line, causing pain, infection, or pressure on neighboring teeth. Impacted teeth can also cause crowding, which can affect your teen’s bite and potentially undo orthodontic work.
When Should You Consider Removal?
While each case is unique, here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to remove your teen’s wisdom teeth:
- Age Matters
The ideal time for wisdom tooth removal is during the late teenage years or early twenties, when the roots are still developing, and the bone around the teeth is softer. This makes the procedure easier and recovery faster. If your teen is around 16-18 years old, this may be a good time to evaluate the wisdom teeth for potential removal.
- Dental X-Rays
Your dentist may take X-rays to assess the positioning and degree of impaction of the wisdom teeth. If the X-rays show that future problems are likely, early removal might be recommended to avoid complications down the road.
- Pain or Swelling
If your teen experiences pain, swelling, or infection around the impacted wisdom teeth, it may be time to consider removal. Sideways wisdom teeth can irritate the gums, leading to infection and discomfort. It’s important to address these issues to prevent further complications.
- Risk of Damage to Adjacent Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can press against neighboring teeth, causing misalignment or even damage. This can undo years of orthodontic work, such as braces. If the wisdom teeth are causing misalignment, removal might be the best way to protect your teen’s smile.
- Potential Cysts or Tumors
In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cysts or tumors around the tooth. These growths can damage surrounding bone and teeth, making early removal crucial in preventing more serious issues.
- Orthodontic Considerations
If your teen has had braces, removing the wisdom teeth early can help prevent shifting or crowding. Early removal can preserve the results of orthodontic treatments and maintain a well-aligned bite.
Should You Wait?
In some cases, your dentist may suggest monitoring the wisdom teeth if they’re not causing symptoms. However, if the teeth are coming in sideways and causing pain or infection, waiting could lead to more serious issues. Early removal tends to be less invasive and results in faster recovery.
What Happens During Wisdom Tooth Removal?
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia or sedation. If the wisdom teeth are impacted, surgery may be needed. The dentist will make an incision in the gum and may remove some bone or divide the tooth for easier removal. After the procedure, your teen may experience swelling or discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and ice. Full recovery usually takes 1-2 weeks.
Insurance and Payment Plans
At Bayswater Dentist, we accept leading insurance providers, including:
- Bupa
- Medibank
- HCF
- NIB
We also offer flexible payment options, such as:
- Afterpay
- Humm
- Denticare
Final Thoughts
If your teen’s wisdom teeth are coming in sideways, it’s important to evaluate the situation with a dentist. Early assessment and removal can help avoid pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth. Waiting too long could lead to more serious complications. Consult with a professional at Bayswater Dentist to make the best decision for your teen’s oral health.