Can You Get Braces With Wisdom Teeth? Here’s What Dentists Say

Are you thinking about braces but still have your wisdom teeth? It can seem a little confusing. Do they interfere with the braces? Should you remove them first? The truth is pretty simple! Yes, you can get braces with wisdom teeth. Many people do!

About 85% of people eventually need their wisdom teeth removed. And around 35% never get them in the first place. So, no matter where you are in this story, you are not alone.

This guide explains what to expect when you have wisdom teeth with braces. Read on to learn when they are just quiet neighbors at the back of your mouth and when they might start causing problems.

What Exactly Are Wisdom Teeth?

They are your last set of molars, usually showing up between 17 and 25. Think of them as the guests who arrive late to the party. Back in ancient times, when people chewed tougher foods, they were useful. Today, our jaws are a little smaller, so there isn’t always enough room for them to come in smoothly.

Some people get four. Others get just one or two. And some never get any. If they grow normally, they might not bother you at all. But if they get stuck or come in at the wrong angle, that’s when they can become a problem.

Can You Get Braces With Wisdom Teeth?

Yes, you can! Many patients start their braces journey with their wisdom teeth still sitting comfortably at the back. If they are not causing trouble, they don’t need to come out right away.

If they do start interfering, your orthodontist may recommend removal along the way. And if they are causing infections or cavities, it’s best to take care of them early. You can learn more about this at wisdom tooth cavity treatment.

Do Wisdom Teeth Affect Braces?

Not always, but sometimes they can. If they are angled or infected, they can make your orthodontist’s job a little more complicated. So, your doctor checks them carefully before or during treatment to make sure everything stays on track.

Why Wisdom Teeth Matter for Braces

Even if wisdom teeth don’t always cause shifting, they can:

• Get in the way of how your teeth move
• Make brushing and flossing harder
• Cause pain or swelling
• Interfere with retainers after braces

Before your braces go on, your orthodontist checks your X-rays. Then they decide whether to leave the wisdom teeth alone, monitor them, or remove them.

What are the Types of Wisdom Teeth Impaction and Their Effect on Braces?

Here’s how different types of wisdom teeth impactions can affect your braces treatment.

• Mesial and Horizontal Impactions: The Problem Makers

  These teeth grow at an angle or sideways. They press on nearby molars and can mess with tooth movement. Most orthodontists recommend removing them before or during treatment to avoid future problems.

• Vertical and Distal Impactions: The Chill Ones

  These usually grow straight or lean slightly backward. If there is enough space, they often don’t interfere with treatment. Your orthodontist may simply keep an eye on them.

Can Wisdom Teeth Shift Your Teeth?

Probably not. It’s a common fear, but studies show wisdom teeth rarely cause shifting. Most of the time, teeth crowding after braces happens because retainers weren’t worn or because of natural aging.

Can You Get Wisdom Teeth Removed With Braces?

Yes, you can. Many people get wisdom teeth removal with braces and continue treatment without a hitch. Your orthodontist and oral surgeon simply coordinate so your teeth keep moving while your gums heal.

You may need a few extra days of soft foods and rest. But braces usually don’t have to come off or pause for long.

What if Your Wisdom Teeth Come in During Braces?

This happens more often than you think. If your wisdom teeth erupt with braces, here’s what usually happens:

1. You might feel some pressure at the back of your mouth.
2. Your orthodontist takes an X-ray to check their position.
3. If they aren’t causing trouble, they can just be watched.
4. If they are, they likely need to be removed so your smile stays on track.

Many teens and young adults go through this stage during treatment. It’s manageable with regular checkups.

What are the Common Issues You Might Face if Wisdom Teeth and Braces Coexist?

Sometimes, braces and wisdom teeth don’t play nicely together. Here’s what can happen:

• Not enough space in your jaw
• Hard-to-reach spots for brushing and flossing
• Wisdom teeth blocking tooth movement
• Pain or swelling from partial eruption

This is why your orthodontist keeps a close eye on these teeth throughout treatment.

When is Wisdom Teeth Removal Recommended Before Braces?

Your orthodontist might recommend the removal of wisdom teeth before starting braces if:

• The wisdom teeth are badly impacted
• There is no room for alignment
• Wisdom teeth are infected or decayed
• They might get in the way of molar movement
• Removal helps your treatment stay on schedule
• Getting them removed early can make everything smoother down the line.

When Braces Can Happen Without Removing Wisdom Teeth

Your treatment is tailored to you. Not everyone’s path looks the same. So, you may not need extraction at all if:

• You have enough jaw space
• The teeth are growing straight
• There is no pain or crowding
• They are fully erupted and stable
• Your orthodontic plan doesn’t involve them

Conclusion

Your wisdom teeth don’t have to stop you from getting braces. With the right plan, they can stay, go, or simply be monitored. If your wisdom teeth are likely to crowd or shift other teeth, they might need to be removed. If they don’t cause trouble, they can simply be observed.

And, do braces affect wisdom teeth? Not directly! But their position can influence how your teeth shift during or after treatment. In short, smart planning ensures your wisdom teeth don’t stand in the way of a healthy and lasting smile.