Am I Too Old to Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

It’s no surprise that wisdom teeth, also known as your third molars, can be a source of a lot of confusion and discomfort. Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, that nagging pain in the back of your mouth kicks in. To make matters worse, most people believe wisdom teeth removal is reserved for teens and folks in their early twenties, fearing it’s too late to find the relief they deserve. 

Don’t worry, Yev Davydov, DDS, Brianna Davydov, DDS, and our dedicated team at Chroma Dental in the Midtown East area of New York City are here to dispel wisdom teeth myths and unravel the truth behind the age dilemma surrounding extraction procedures. 

If you’re uncertain about your wisdom teeth and wondering what steps to take next, keep reading! 

Consulting with your dentist 

No matter how old you are or what symptoms you’re experiencing, the first and most crucial step to navigating your wisdom teeth is to consult with experts. Our team at Chroma Dental can assess your oral health and determine what issues your wisdom teeth might be causing. 

Although it’s true that wisdom teeth typically start appearing around your late teenage years or early twenties, that doesn’t mean that age is a primary factor when considering what treatment is best for you. The real key lies in the condition of your wisdom teeth and your overall oral health. 

In some cases, wisdom teeth can lead to various problems, such as crowding, impaction, and infection. Regardless of age, our team considers every factor and symptom to determine if extraction is best for you. 

Signs your wisdom teeth need attention 

Here are a few of the main symptoms our team looks for before deciding if you need treatment for your wisdom teeth: 

• Persistent discomfort or pain in the back of your mouth 
• Swollen or bleeding gums around molars 
• Jaw stiffness
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully 

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s time to schedule that appointment, no matter how old you are. 

Navigating wisdom teeth removal in adulthood 

If we find wisdom teeth removal is the best solution for you, we know you might have lots of questions swirling in your mind. That's why we also compiled the following guide covering considerations, benefits, and a range of options: 

Benefits of wisdom teeth removal 

Although you might have your reservations or doubts, don’t panic. There are several benefits to getting your wisdom teeth removed in adulthood. One of the primary reasons is that we can prevent potential issues from escalating. If you’re concerned that you’re too old, don’t be. Removing your wisdom teeth at any age can prevent untreated complications like infections, cysts, and damage to your surrounding teeth. 

Recovery considerations 

Perhaps the main concern about wisdom teeth removal is the recovery period. Although younger patients tend to heal faster, that doesn’t mean older adults can’t recover smoothly. The recovery period comes down to your overall health and how you follow our post-operative care instructions and oral hygiene recommendations. 

Anesthesia and sedation options 

Some of you might also worry about the use of anesthesia during your procedure. While this is a valid concern, just know that dentistry has made significant advancements. We offer various anesthesia and sedation options to ensure a comfortable experience and happily discuss them with you during your appointment. 

In the grand scheme, wisdom teeth removal isn’t exclusively reserved for the young. The key lies in listening to your body, seeking professional guidance, and being proactive about your oral health. If you’re ready to learn more about wisdom teeth removal, call our office at 646-933-8174 or visit our website to request an appointment today!