Getting dentures is a great way to improve the aesthetics and function of your smile. But, the road to dentures can be long and time-consuming. Before getting dentures, you and your dental team want to ensure you have the best oral health possible. As you begin checking items off this list, you may wonder whether you must also remove your wisdom teeth.
Although removal of your wisdom teeth isn’t always necessary before getting dentures, it is a good idea for some dental patients. If you are about to embark on the dentures process and want to learn more about whether removing these teeth is best for you, keep reading.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that most commonly emerge during late adolescence or early adulthood. Most dental patients will notice this emergence between 17 and 25. They are located at the back of the mouth, behind each of your second molars. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others experience pain, crowding, or other complications.
This is often due to a lack of space in the jaw, causing the teeth to become impacted or grow at odd angles. In such cases, dentists may recommend removal to prevent future problems. If you are preparing to get dentures, you may wonder whether these teeth present a problem. While that isn’t always the case, they may be troublesome to some dental patients.
Do You Need to Remove Them Before Getting Dentures?
If it is absolutely necessary, your dental team will recommend tooth extractions, like wisdom tooth removal. While wisdom tooth removal isn’t always essential before getting dentures, there are a few situations in which it is in your best interest. These include:
- Tooth Damage: As your wisdom teeth erupt, they may do so in a way that is harmful to the neighboring teeth. In some cases, they may push against these teeth, leading to tooth damage, which is especially detrimental if you get partial dentures that latch to them. If your wisdom teeth are causing damage to surrounding teeth, removal is essential to protect your denture investment.
- Sinus Problems: When your wisdom teeth grow in, there is a chance they can put pressure on your sinuses. This pressure can lead to increased sinus headaches and infections. If your dental team finds that your wisdom teeth are causing problems with your sinuses, they will remove them before you can continue the denture process.
- Misaligned Teeth: It isn’t uncommon for dental patients to have inadequate space in their mouth to support wisdom teeth. If there isn’t enough room for these teeth, they may press on the surrounding teeth, causing misalignments. These misalignments make it difficult to comfortably wear dentures, making removal essential to continue this process.
- Cavities or Tooth Decay: If you have any cavities or signs of major tooth decay in your wisdom teeth, it may be in your best interest to have them removed before getting dentures. In cases of extreme decay, removal of these teeth will be necessary at some point to prevent infection spread and bone loss. Instead of putting this off, it is best to get your wisdom teeth removed as soon as signs of decay appear.
If your dental team does decide to remove your wisdom teeth before you get dentures, you may have to wait for the tissue to heal before continuing the process. Attempting to get dentures installed while the tissue heals can lead to delayed healing or post-removal complications. While you may want to get your dentures as soon as possible, waiting for this tissue to recover after your oral surgery is best to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Other Ways to Prepare for Dentures
While removing your wisdom teeth can help make the denture process easier, your dentist may recommend a few other treatments ahead of time. Some dental treatments you may consider scheduling before getting your dentures include:
- Dental Cleaning and X-rays: Before you get your dentures, it is essential to schedule dental cleanings and X-rays with your dental team. If you have any remaining teeth, you want them to be healthy when your dentures arrive. The X-rays are also essential for ensuring you have enough jawbone to support this new dental prosthetic.
- Dental Crowns: When your dentist addresses cavities before you get your dentures, they may also need to fit you for dental crowns. These crowns are especially important if you are getting partial dentures, which fit into your mouth with the crowns.
- Teeth Whitening: If you are getting partial dentures, you may want to consider investing in teeth whitening services before they arrive. Getting whitening beforehand can ensure your natural teeth match the dentures well, helping you adjust to the appearance of your new prosthetic.
Are Partial or Complete Dentures Best for You?
Whether you are better suited for partial or complete dentures depends on your oral health and specific needs. Partial dentures are ideal if you still have several healthy natural teeth. They replace only the missing teeth and are designed to fit around the remaining ones, preserving the natural structure of your jaw.
Conversely, complete dentures are used when all teeth in the upper, lower, or arches are missing. Your dentist will assess the condition of your gums, jawbone, and existing teeth to recommend the best option. Factors such as overall oral health, budget, and lifestyle preferences also play a role.
While partial dentures maintain more of your natural appearance, complete dentures can restore functionality and aesthetics when tooth loss is extensive. If you are considering getting dentures to remedy tooth loss, it is best to speak to your dentist about which prosthetic they believe is best for your current oral health condition.
Achieve Your Most Beautiful Smile in Bismarck, ND
No matter what dentures are right for you, our team at Bismarck Advanced Dental & Implants is here to help. Since 2009, our team has provided comprehensive dental care to patients across the Bismarck, ND, area. From dentures to veneers, implants, and more, our team is committed to helping you achieve your healthiest, most beautiful smile.
If you would like to speak to a team member about our dental services or schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us today.