Do my wisdom teeth need to be removed before starting Invisalign?

Whether you need to have your wisdom teeth removed before starting Invisalign treatment is not clear cut and depends on many factors that we will review. As always, it is best to have an X-ray and consult with your general dentist before starting treatment. 

Here are some considerations:

1. Position of Wisdom Teeth: If your wisdom teeth are impacted (not fully erupted) they may need to be extracted before treatment. An X-ray can best determine this. 

2. Age and Growth: If you are still in your teens or early twenties, your general dentist may want to monitor the development of your wisdom teeth. They may not be ready for extractions. Dentists generally recommend extractions once there is some root formation of the wisdom teeth. 

3. Space: If there’s insufficient space in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to erupt properly, your dentist might suggest their removal to prevent future issues. This can be particularly problematic if you have partially erupted teeth as they are hard to clean and could lead to gum infection or tooth decay. 

4. Current Oral Health: If your wisdom teeth are healthy and properly positioned, they may not need to be removed. Many people retain their wisdom teeth throughout their lives with little to no issues