Do Teeth Shift After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

Approximately 85% of people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their lives, but what happens next? One common concern is do teeth shift after wisdom teeth extraction?

This question is frequently asked by patients whose wisdom teeth have been removed. While it's natural to worry about changes in your smile after the surgical procedure, it’s important to understand the realities of teeth movement post-extraction. Keep reading to find out! 

Understanding Teeth Shifting After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

When wisdom teeth are removed, particularly in your late teens or early twenties, the space left behind can lead to subtle changes in your mouth. However, the idea that teeth will immediately and significantly shift is largely a myth. Your teeth are anchored by strong ligaments and bone, which typically prevents drastic movement.

Factors That Influence Teeth Shifting After Extraction

There are several factors that can influence whether and how much your teeth shift after wisdom tooth removal.

1. Age and Development: Younger patients may experience more noticeable shifting, as their teeth and jaws are still developing. Older adults, on the other hand, have more stable teeth, and any movement is usually less pronounced.
2. Existing Alignment Issues: If you had alignment issues before the extraction, these could either stay the same or worsen slightly, depending on how your bite adjusts post-surgery.
3. Recovery Time: The period immediately following your surgery is crucial. Following your dentist's instructions regarding brushing your teeth and avoiding certain foods can help ensure a smooth recovery and minimize unnecessary shifting.

How Soon Do Teeth Shift After Extraction?

While teeth might not shift drastically, some minor movement can occur. The timeline for any shifting varies from person to person. Teeth shifting might be more noticeable in the months following the extraction as your mouth heals and your bite adjusts. However, this shifting is often minimal and doesn’t typically result in significant misalignment.

Will My Teeth Straighten After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

Another related concern is whether your teeth will straighten out after the wisdom teeth removal. If you had crowding issues before the extraction, it’s unlikely that removing the wisdom teeth alone will resolve them. Orthodontic treatment is usually required to correct alignment issues. On the flip side, removing impacted wisdom teeth can alleviate some of the crowding pressure in the back of your mouth, which might prevent further misalignment.

How to Prevent Teeth Shifting After Extraction

To minimize teeth shifting after your wisdom teeth have been removed, follow these tips:

1. Wear Retainers: If you’ve had braces or other orthodontic treatments, wearing your retainer as instructed by your dentist can help keep your teeth in place.
2. Monitor Your Bite: If you notice your bite force feels weird after wisdom tooth extraction, scheduling an appointment with your dentist is the right thing to do. Sometimes, minor adjustments can prevent further complications.
3. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular visits to your dentist can help catch any shifting early. If your dentist notices any movement, they can provide solutions to prevent further changes.

The Bottom Line

So, do teeth shift after wisdom teeth extractions? The answer is that minor shifts can occur, but they’re usually not significant. The best way to maintain your smile is by following proper care, regular dental visits, and following any post-operative instructions provided by your dentist.

At Kokua Smiles, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you’re planning to undergo wisdom teeth removal or you’re noticing changes in your teeth post-extraction, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way, providing the best dental services in Hawaii! 

Schedule an appointment today to ensure your dental health is on the right track. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of post-extraction care and keep your smile shining bright!

Book your appointment Now!