When it comes to planning your orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth often raise questions and concerns. Will they affect your straight teeth? Should they be removed before or after braces? At Noranda Orthodontics, Dr Trudy and the team regularly address these questions to help patients make informed decisions about their smile and oral health.
Let’s dive into the connection between wisdom teeth and orthodontics and what it means for you.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people never develop them, while others may have one, two, three, or all four.
Because they erupt so late, there often isn’t enough room in the jaw to accommodate them. This can lead to issues such as:
- Crowding of other teeth
- Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
- Infection or gum inflammation
- Tooth decay (due to difficulty cleaning the area)
- Impaction (when the tooth can’t fully erupt)
Can Wisdom Teeth Affect Orthodontic Treatment?
One of the most common concerns is whether wisdom teeth will shift your teeth after braces or aligners. The good news? While wisdom teeth can cause discomfort and crowding in some cases, they are not always the culprits behind teeth shifting after treatment.
More often, teeth naturally shift over time due to ageing and changes in your bite or facial muscles. That’s why wearing your retainer after treatment is essential regardless of whether you have wisdom teeth or not.
Do You Need to Remove Wisdom Teeth Before Braces or Aligners?
Not necessarily. At Noranda Orthodontics, Dr Trudy assesses each case individually using X-rays and 3D imaging to determine the position and potential impact of your wisdom teeth.
Here’s how it usually works:
- If your wisdom teeth are impacted, causing pain, or pushing against other teeth, removal may be recommended before or during orthodontic treatment.
- If they are developing normally and not causing any problems, they may be left alone and monitored throughout treatment.
- If they erupt after your orthodontic treatment, regular check-ups supported by your general dentist, will help monitor their impact on your smile.
How Wisdom Teeth Are Managed During Orthodontics
At Noranda Orthodontics, your treatment plan takes your entire dental development into account including your wisdom teeth. We may:
- Monitor wisdom teeth growth with periodic X-rays
- Work closely with your general dentist or oral surgeon if removal is advised
- Adjust your treatment plan to avoid interference from third molars
- Ensure your retainers are designed to keep your teeth in place long-term
Retainers: Your Best Protection Against Teeth Shifting
No matter what’s going on with your wisdom teeth, wearing your retainers as prescribed is the key to preserving your new smile. Retainers counteract natural forces that can cause teeth to move including pressure from wisdom teeth, ageing, and everyday habits like clenching or grinding.
Book an Orthodontic Consultation
If you’re concerned about wisdom teeth and how they may affect your braces or aligner treatment, book a consultation with Dr Trudy at Noranda Orthodontics. We’ll perform a full evaluation, including X-rays, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, wisdom teeth included!
