Timing matters—especially when it comes to your wisdom teeth.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Between the ages of 17 and 25, it’s important to have a consultation with experienced maxillofacial surgeons. Early evaluation with an oral and maxillofacial surgery specialist ensures any problems with wisdom tooth removal are caught early.
While some people never develop them, most do—and in many cases, there isn’t enough room in the mouth to support them. The result? Impacted, misaligned, or partially erupted wisdom teeth that can cause pain, crowding, infections, and long-term dental issues.
So when is the right time to have them removed? At EOS Oral Surgery, this is one of the most common questions we hear. The answer depends on a few key factors—but in most cases, sooner is better than later.
Why Early Evaluation Is Key
The best time to evaluate your wisdom teeth is during your late teens or early twenties. This is when the teeth begin forming but haven’t fully erupted or caused complications yet. Early X-rays can reveal:
- Whether the wisdom teeth are impacted
- If there is enough room in your jaw to accommodate them
- If their roots are growing in a way that may cause issues
Based on the evaluation, your dentist may recommend wisdom tooth extraction as a preventative surgical procedure. Removing the teeth before complications arise often leads to a smoother recovery.
“The best outcomes we see are with patients who choose early intervention—before pain or infection begins. Proactive removal often prevents years of dental problems down the road.”
— Dr. Diana Jee Hyun Lyu, Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Signs It Might Be Time to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth
While we recommend proactive evaluation even before symptoms begin, here are a few signs that it’s time to consider wisdom teeth removal:
- Jaw pain or swelling in the back of the mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Gum inflammation or recurring infections near the molars
- Shifting teeth or crowding in your smile
- Headaches or discomfort when chewing
Problems with the soft tissue around partially erupted wisdom teeth can lead to infection, difficulty forming a healthy blood clot, or complications at the extraction site if left untreated. Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms yet, your wisdom teeth could still be damaging adjacent teeth or bone tissue. That’s why early evaluation and treatment if indicated is crucial.
Why Younger Is Often Better
Removing wisdom teeth before the roots fully develop typically results in a faster and more predictable recovery. Younger patients:
- Tend to heal more quickly
- Experience fewer complications
- Have more flexible bone and less risk of nerve involvement
- Often recover in just a few days with minimal downtime
Wisdom tooth removal under general anesthesia is often easier for younger patients, and most can resume soft foods and normal activities within 24 hours after the surgical procedure.
Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
At EOS Oral Surgery, we specialize in wisdom teeth removal and walk each patient through the process—from consultation to recovery—with expert care and personalized attention.
Whether you’re a parent seeking guidance for your teen or an adult wondering if it’s too late to act, we’re here to help you make the most informed decision for your oral health.
Whether you’re seeking advice from your general dentist or oral surgeon, planning ahead ensures better outcomes. Protecting your oral health early also helps avoid future treatments like dental implants later in life.
