Do Wisdom Teeth Affect Braces? What You Need to Know
If you’ve had or are considering braces, you may be wondering what role your wisdom teeth play in orthodontic treatment. These late-blooming molars are known for causing issues—but are they a guaranteed problem for braces patients? Not necessarily.
Let’s clear up some common myths and explain how wisdom teeth and braces interact.
What Are Wisdom Teeth, Exactly?
Wisdom teeth are your third molars, located at the very back of your mouth. They usually begin to erupt between ages 17 and 25. Not everyone gets them, and for those who do, they may come in fully, partially, or remain impacted (trapped under the gums or jawbone). Due to evolution and smaller jaw sizes in modern humans, wisdom teeth often don’t have enough space to grow in comfortably.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed Before Braces?
No. This is a common misconception. Whether wisdom teeth need to be removed before starting braces depends on your specific case. If your orthodontist sees early signs that the teeth are impacted or that there’s not enough room for them to come in properly, removal might be recommended. However, if there’s enough space or the wisdom teeth are not likely to interfere with treatment, they may simply be monitored over time.
Can Impacted Wisdom Teeth Affect Orthodontic Treatment?
Sometimes. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause problems such as pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth—especially if they push against second molars or trap food and bacteria. But not all impacted teeth cause issues. If an impacted tooth is pressing on nearby teeth or causing decay, removal may be necessary. Your orthodontist will evaluate whether it’s affecting your bite or tooth alignment and plan accordingly.
Can You Get Wisdom Teeth Removed While Wearing Braces?
Yes. While many patients have their wisdom teeth taken out before or after orthodontic treatment, it’s also possible to have them removed while wearing braces. Your orthodontist may refer you to your dentist or an oral surgeon to handle the extraction if needed during your treatment.
Will Wisdom Teeth Mess Up My Teeth After Braces?
This is another common concern. Some patients worry that when their wisdom teeth erupt, they’ll undo all the progress made with braces. While wisdom teeth can cause crowding in some cases, this isn’t always the case. If you’re wearing your retainers as prescribed, your teeth will likely stay in place—even if your wisdom teeth begin to emerge.
The Importance of Monitoring After Braces
Just because your braces are off doesn’t mean you should stop checking on your oral health. Routine dental and orthodontic visits are still important. Your dental team will track the development of your wisdom teeth with x-rays and physical exams. If problems arise, they can address them early—before they affect your alignment or cause discomfort.
The Bottom Line
Wisdom teeth don’t automatically mean trouble for your braces or your smile. Every mouth is different, which is why it’s important to work closely with your orthodontist and dentist throughout your orthodontic journey.
Still have questions about your wisdom teeth and braces?
We’re happy to help. Contact Shine Ortho Studio today to schedule a consultation and get personalized advice for your smile.