Wisdom Teeth and Teens: What Every Parent Should Know

Like getting dental braces, wisdom teeth removal has become a common dental milestone for many teens.

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of molars to develop and typically begin to emerge between the ages of 16 and 25. They’re nicknamed “wisdom” teeth because they appear later than other adult teeth, at an age when a person is (hopefully) wiser.

If your teen starts complaining about jaw pain, swelling, or discomfort toward the back of the mouth, it’s likely that their wisdom teeth are starting to erupt. Once these molars break through the gums, it’s crucial to clean them thoroughly every day, as food particles and bacteria can get trapped, leading to inflammation or infection.

Your teen’s dentist will track the development of their wisdom teeth with periodic X-rays. If the teeth appear impacted, meaning they are growing in sideways or at an angle, your dentist may recommend removing them before they cause complications. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infections, cysts, or even damage to adjacent teeth and nerves, so early intervention is often best.

Will Your Teen Need Wisdom Teeth Removed?

In many cases, there simply isn’t enough room in the average teen’s jaw to accommodate wisdom teeth. If the molars become partially erupted or remain trapped below the gumline, they can lead to pain, infections, and long-term dental issues.

Some dentists recommend proactive removal even before the teeth fully emerge. This approach can prevent future crowding, infections, and shifting of other teeth, especially if your teen has already undergone orthodontic treatment like braces. The longer wisdom teeth are left in place, the more their roots develop, making surgical extraction more complex and increasing the risk of complications.

Removing wisdom teeth early can help prevent:

• Tooth decay and gum infection in hard-to-reach areas

• Pressure pain in the jaw

• Shifting of previously straightened teeth

• Jaw cysts or nerve damage in rare cases

If you haven’t already, talk to your teen’s dentist about their wisdom teeth. Waiting too long can lead to more complicated extractions. A dental professional can review your teen’s X-rays and advise the best course of action, whether it’s continued monitoring or planning a referral to an oral surgeon.

Early evaluation is key. With the right timing and care, your teen’s wisdom teeth don’t have to be a painful problem.