Whether you're an adult or a teen, you may still have your wisdom teeth. If you're supposed to get braces or other orthodontia in the future, you may wonder if having your wisdom teeth will get in the way.

If you still have your wisdom teeth, there are a few things you should know before you get braces.

Wisdom Teeth Can Cause Crowding

Wisdom teeth can cause your other teeth to shift and become crowded. As they grow in, they can move other teeth toward the front of your mouth.

When you get braces, it's important that your other teeth aren't crowded. Crowding could make it difficult for the braces to do their job properly.

That's why, before getting braces, your orthodontist will check to make sure there is enough room in your mouth for all of your teeth. If there is not enough room, the orthodontist may recommend removing the wisdom teeth before getting braces.

Braces May Not Have to Be Removed for Extraction

The good news is that if you have braces and later learn you need to remove your wisdom teeth, a dentist can still perform the procedure. Your orthodontist will not have to remove the braces first.

Keep in mind that the discomfort of braces may feel worse after wisdom tooth extraction. You can talk to your orthodontist and dentist about potential pain relievers or other ways to minimize the discomfort.

Wisdom Teeth Are Often Better Removed Early

If you know you have wisdom teeth, it's often a good idea to get them removed before getting braces. This way, your orthodontist can ensure that the other teeth are properly aligned without overcrowding.

Wisdom teeth can become impacted, and they're also easily infected. If they're removed early, you may be able to avoid any potential problems, including cavities and decay in the back of your mouth.

Additionally, removing your wisdom teeth can make braces work their magic a bit easier. Those teeth don't need to be accounted for, so your orthodontist can concentrate on the teeth that need to move.

The Bottom Line

Having wisdom teeth won't necessarily keep you from getting braces, but it can affect how effective they will be. Your orthodontist may recommend removing them before beginning treatment with braces in order to make sure the teeth have room to spread out correctly.

It's normal to be on the fence about having your wisdom teeth pulled. This is a more intensive procedure than normal extractions. Talk to your orthodontist about a plan for wisdom tooth care.

Contact a company like Laveen Smiles to learn more.