Many Australians worry that wisdom teeth will push their other teeth out of place, leading to misalignment. This concern is especially common among those who have had braces and want to maintain their straight teeth. But is there solid evidence to support this belief?
While wisdom teeth do emerge in the late teens or early twenties, the same time many people notice changes in their lower front teeth, research suggests that the two are not directly connected. Keep reading; let’s find out what actually causes teeth to shift and whether wisdom teeth removal is necessary to prevent crowding.
Do Wisdom Teeth Really Push Other Teeth Forward?
It might seem logical that wisdom teeth, growing at the back of the mouth, could push forward and cause crowding. However, studies indicate that this isn’t the case.
Additionally, research has found that people who never develop wisdom teeth still experience some crowding in their lower front teeth as they age. On the other hand, some people who keep their wisdom teeth have no alignment issues at all. This suggests that wisdom teeth and dental crowding are not directly linked.
So, if wisdom teeth aren’t responsible, what actually causes teeth to shift over time?
What Actually Causes Teeth to Shift?
Several natural factors contribute to changes in tooth alignment, even in people who never develop wisdom teeth. Some key reasons include:
- Late Mandibular Growth – several studies found that the lower jaw continues to grow slightly during the late teens and early twenties. As it grows, it rotates and affects the positioning of teeth. This happens around the same time wisdom teeth emerge, leading to the false assumption that wisdom teeth are causing the movement.
- Mesial Drift – Teeth naturally drift forward over time due to the pressure exerted by chewing muscles. This forward movement can contribute to crowding in the lower front teeth.
- Bone Remodeling& Tooth Shape – The way bone reshapes itself over time, combined with the natural size and shape of an individual’s teeth, can also lead to shifting and crowding.
- Failure to Wear Retainers – For those who have had orthodontic treatment, not wearing a retainer as prescribed can lead to gradual relapse and shifting of teeth.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Even though wisdom teeth aren’t the cause of crowding, they can still create other dental problems. Many Australians experience issues such as:
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth – When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to fully emerge, they can grow at an angle or remain trapped under the gum.
- Increased Risk of Cavities & Gum Disease – Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to decay and inflammation of the gums.
- Damage to Nearby Teeth – In some cases, wisdom teeth press against the second molars, increasing the risk of cavities and weakening the surrounding teeth.
If wisdom teeth are causing pain, infection, or potential damage to other teeth, wisdom teeth removal Sydney may be necessary.
Should You Remove Wisdom Teeth to Prevent Crowding?
Because there’s no scientific proof that wisdom teeth cause crowding, removing them solely for that reason isn’t necessary. Many dental professionals in Australia no longer recommend extraction unless there are clear signs of complications.
However, if a dentist identifies potential problems with your wisdom teeth, removal might still be the best option. The wisdom teeth removal cost Sydney depends on factors such as whether the extraction is simple or surgical. The cost of wisdom teeth removal Sydney can also vary based on the clinic and the level of sedation required.
Finding Cheap Wisdom Teeth Removal inSydney
If removal is necessary, understanding the wisdom teeth price Sydney can help with budgeting.
- Whether the procedure is a simple extraction or requires surgery
- The type of anaesthesia used
- The experience and location of the dentist
- The number of teeth removed
Look for clinics that offer flexible payment options or accept health insurance to make the procedure more affordable. Consulting a dentist can provide clarity on the best approach for your situation.
Final Thoughts
While wisdom teeth have long been blamed for causing misalignment, research has shown that natural jaw growth, mesial drift, and individual dental anatomy are the real reasons teeth shift over time.
That said, wisdom teeth can still cause complications, such as impaction, infections, and damage to surrounding teeth. If you’re unsure about your wisdom teeth Sydney, scheduling a consultation with your dentist can help you make an informed decision about whether extraction is necessary.
Regular dental visits and proper post-orthodontic care will help keep your smile straight and healthy for years to come.
