This is always a hard question to answer, simply because we can’t see into the future. However, if an X-ray indicates that there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth to develop, then a few criteria may indicate the ideal time to remove the wisdom teeth. Your dentist will help you decide when the time is right.
They are best removed before the roots have fully developed. Ideally, when root development is between 10% and 50%. Undeveloped roots increase the chances that your surgery will be successful and you will not suffer any long term negative effects.
If possible, allowing the tooth to erupt as much as possible before it gets ‘stuck’ is also favorable. The closer the tooth gets to erupting, the simpler the surgery to remove it will be.
Age is a consideration and patients in their late teens are ideal candidates for removal. However, in some instances patients as young as 10 years old or as old as 90 may require wisdom tooth removal.
Oftentimes patients will remove the wisdom teeth to prepare for braces at the request of their Orthodontist.
…And, if your wisdom teeth are hurting…this is a great time to remove them!