It’s one of the most common questions we hear from patients: “Should I remove my wisdom teeth to prevent them from crowding my front teeth?” Many people notice their lower front teeth shifting or becoming crowded in their early twenties or late teens, at the same time wisdom teeth (third molars) tend to erupt.
Is this connection valid? We consulted with Dr. Aristo Carranza, a premier dental expert in Westfield, NJ, to share his perspective on the evidence.
The Myth: Wisdom Teeth as the “Bully”
The long-held theory is that as wisdom teeth emerge, they push all the other teeth forward, like a domino effect, resulting in crowded or crooked front (anterior) teeth. This theory seems logical, which is why it’s so persistent.
However, extensive clinical studies have challenged this assumption.
The Science Behind Crowding
Modern dentistry suggests the link between wisdom teeth and anterior crowding is weak, if it exists at all. Studies comparing patients who had their wisdom teeth extracted versus those who did not remove them often show no significant difference in the development of anterior crowding.
If wisdom teeth are not to blame, what is?
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Continued Jaw Development: The mandible can continue to grow or change shape slightly into early adulthood, affecting how the teeth fit together.
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“Natural Forward Movement”: This is the natural, lifelong tendency for teeth to move slowly toward the front of the mouth.
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Periodontal Health: The health of your gums and the bone supporting your teeth plays a crucial role in their stability.
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Lack of Retainer Use: In post-orthodontic patients, crowding is often the result of teeth shifting back (not wearing a retainer) instead of pressure from wisdom teeth.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
While wisdom teeth are unlikely to be the primary cause for your front teeth shifting, there are many valid medical reasons to have them checked and potentially removed by a professional like Dr. Carranza.
We advise removal if the wisdom teeth are:
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Impacted: Trapped in the bone and failing to emerge correctly, which can damage adjacent teeth.
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Leading to Infection: Leading to pain, swelling, or cysts (pericoronitis).
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Hard to Maintain: Their location far back of the mouth makes them hard to brush and floss, resulting in decay.
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Damaging Other Teeth: Pressing on the roots of the second molars.
Get a Full Smile Assessment in Westfield
The bottom line is: Don’t blame your wisdom teeth for crowding until you get a professional opinion.
If you are near Westfield, NJ and are concerned about shifting teeth, crowding, or the health of your wisdom teeth, Dr. Carranza can offer a comprehensive assessment. He will determine the true cause of your crowding and discuss modern cosmetic solutions—such as Invisalign or porcelain veneers—to achieve your straight, beautiful smile.
Schedule Your Visit:
Give your smile the attention it deserves. Book your appointment with Dr. Aristo Carranza today. Call (908) 444-3200 or stop by our clinic at 301 Lenox Avenue, Westfield, NJ 07090.
