Invisalign and Wisdom Teeth

July 6, 2021

You have followed all your orthodontist’s recommendations, and you have diligently worn your Invisalign aligners for the correct amount of time to achieve a straighter smile. The last thing you want is for something like your wisdom teeth to affect your new smile.

While it is a valid concern, whether your wisdom teeth can affect your orthodontic treatment will depend on your specific situation.

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Your wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the teeth located in the back corners of your mouth. They typically begin to emerge between ages 17 and 21. They are different from your other teeth because they begin to grow at age seven, and they do not serve any purpose.

At some point, wisdom teeth may have been useful to our ancestors when they had harsher diets and larger mouths. Now that our diets contain softer foods and our jaws are smaller, wisdom teeth are no longer useful for survival.

When Should My Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Commonly, most people have their wisdom teeth removed in their late teens to early twenties. Roughly 85% of people will require extraction, but surgery is not required for everyone.

Why are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Two main reasons for removing your wisdom teeth are to alleviate any immediate pain or infection and to reduce your risk of dental issues in the future caused by your wisdom teeth. Removal may be recommended depending on how your wisdom teeth have come in. There are three ways your wisdom teeth can erupt:

Fully erupted – This means they have completely grown in.

Partially erupted – This means the wisdom teeth have erupted partway with the part of the teeth hidden beneath the gums.

Impacted – In this case, the wisdom teeth are trapped below the gums.

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cysts, tumors, infection, and pain down the road. If you have partially erupted wisdom teeth, you are at risk for bacterial infection since they are difficult to clean properly. In these two cases, your dentist will recommend that you have them removed.

Fully erupted wisdom teeth can also lead to issues since they can be difficult to get to for flossing and brushing. This can increase your risk of tooth decay.

How Can Wisdom Teeth Affect My Orthodontic Treatment?

Typically, the best age for children to get braces is between 8-14 years old, before their wisdom teeth come in, while Invisalign patients tend to be older and may have already had their wisdom teeth removed. In most cases, orthodontic treatment will begin before your child has their wisdom teeth removed. Fortunately, you will not likely need to delay treatment.

For older teens or adults, if your wisdom teeth are crowding your mouth, it could make realigning your smile more difficult. To check whether your wisdom teeth are a concern or not, your dentist will perform an x-ray prior to fitting you for Invisalign.

Wisdom teeth are not likely to affect your treatment with braces or Invisalign. Aging is typically the cause of teeth shifting, and wearing a retainer can help to prevent movement. Your orthodontist will monitor your teeth after completing Invisalign to check for any signs of crowding.

If your wisdom teeth come in during your Invisalign treatment, you will be able to continue your treatment as directed. You may need to take a break from your aligners to allow the area to heal, but you will not have to worry about delaying your progress.

Invisalign at Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics

At Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics , we provide expert Invisalign treatment for children, teens, and adults. We will perform x-rays prior to your Invisalign fitting and explain how your wisdom teeth may affect the alignment of your teeth. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

The post Invisalign and Wisdom Teeth appeared first on Severns Dentistry and Orthodontics.

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Author: Natalie Severns, DMD

Upon graduating from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Severns specialized in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She then did an externship in London, England, at the prestigious Guy’s Hospital. At this hospital, she learned top therapies in Dentofacial Orthopedics to provide her patients with the best possible facial esthetics.

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What Causes Teeth Sensitivity and How to Manage It?

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Tooth sensitivity can be a frustrating and painful experience, often triggered by everyday activities like eating, drinking, or even brushing. For many, the sharp, temporary discomfort can feel like a mystery, leaving them unsure of how to find relief. Understanding the causes and treatment options for tooth sensitivity is the first step toward a pain-free smile. At Severns Dentistry, we provide comprehensive care to address dental concerns, including tooth sensitivity, and our team is here to help you manage this common condition. If you’re seeking expert dental care or need an orthodontist in McMurray, we’re here to ensure your oral health remains a top priority. Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity , occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth (dentin) becomes exposed. This can happen for several reasons: 1. Enamel Erosion The enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth. When it wears down due to aggressive brushing, acidic foods, or teeth grinding, the dentin underneath becomes exposed, leading to sensitivity. 2. Receding Gums Gum recession can expose the roots of your teeth, which lack protective enamel, making them more vulnerable to sensitivity. 3. Tooth Decay and Cavities Damaged or decayed areas of your teeth can create pathways to the nerve endings in the dentin, resulting in sensitivity. 4. Cracked or Chipped Teeth Cracks or chips in a tooth can expose the dentin or even the inner pulp, causing sensitivity and sometimes severe pain. 5. Post-Orthodontic Treatment Sensitivity After orthodontic adjustments or treatments, some patients experience temporary sensitivity as their teeth and jaw adapt to new alignments. 6. Acidic Foods and Beverages Frequent consumption of citrus fruits, soda, and other acidic items can erode enamel and increase sensitivity. 7. Teeth Whitening Products Some over-the-counter whitening treatments can temporarily irritate the teeth, especially if the enamel is already compromised. How to Manage Tooth Sensitivity Managing tooth sensitivity often begins with identifying and addressing the root cause. Here are some tips and treatment options to help alleviate discomfort: 1. Use a Desensitizing Toothpaste Toothpastes specifically formulated for sensitive teeth can block the pathways that lead to nerves, reducing sensitivity over time. Brands like Sensodyne are popular for this purpose. 2. Practice Gentle Brushing Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle, circular motions when brushing. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can wear down enamel and irritate gums. 3. Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks Reducing your intake of acidic items can help prevent further enamel erosion. Drinking through a straw can minimize contact with your teeth, and rinsing with water afterward can neutralize acids. 4. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other issues that contribute to sensitivity. 5. Dental Sealants or Bonding For exposed dentin or worn enamel, your dentist may recommend sealants or bonding materials to protect sensitive areas. 6. Fluoride Treatments Professional fluoride applications can strengthen your enamel and reduce sensitivity. 7. Address Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) If grinding your teeth at night is causing sensitivity, your dentist may recommend a custom mouthguard to protect your enamel. 8. Orthodontic Care For those dealing with misalignment or jaw issues contributing to sensitivity, consulting an orthodontist in McMurray can provide long-term relief and improve overall dental health. When to See a Dentist If your tooth sensitivity persists or worsens despite at-home care, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a dental professional. Severe or ongoing sensitivity can be a sign of a more serious issue, such as: Advanced gum disease Deep decay or infection Significant enamel loss At Severns Dentistry, we offer personalized treatment plans to address sensitivity and improve your oral health. From preventive care to advanced solutions like sealants and orthodontic treatments, our team is equipped to help. How Orthodontics Can Help with Sensitivity Misaligned teeth or bite issues can contribute to uneven wear on enamel, gum recession, and increased sensitivity. Working with an orthodontist in McMurray can correct these issues, reducing sensitivity and preventing further damage. Treatments like braces or aligners can also improve overall oral health by making teeth easier to clean and less prone to decay or gum problems. Preventing Tooth Sensitivity While tooth sensitivity can often be managed, prevention is always the best approach. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth healthy and sensitivity-free: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Floss regularly to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth. Visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Trust Severns Dentistry for Your Dental Needs If you’re struggling with tooth sensitivity or need orthodontic care, the team at Severns Dentistry is here to help. We offer comprehensive dental services, including expert care from an orthodontist in McMurray, to ensure your smile stays healthy and strong. Schedule an appointment with Severns Dentistry to learn more about managing tooth sensitivity and improving your oral health. Let us help you smile with confidence!