When dealing with a wisdom tooth causing jaw pain, many people turn to their dentist for relief. However, in some cases, your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist or even an endodontist, depending on the complexity of your situation. Orthodontists specialize in correcting misaligned teeth and jaw structures, which can sometimes be impacted by wisdom teeth. Understanding the education and training required to become an orthodontist can help you appreciate why these specialists are trusted to manage complex dental issues, including those related to wisdom teeth.
What Causes Wisdom Tooth-Related Jaw Pain?
Impaction: The wisdom tooth may not have enough space to grow properly, causing pain, swelling, and pressure on surrounding teeth.
Infection and Abscesses: When a wisdom tooth partially erupts, bacteria can accumulate, leading to infections that spread to the jaw and gums.
Jaw Misalignment: If a wisdom tooth grows at an awkward angle, it may shift other teeth, potentially leading to bite issues that require orthodontic intervention.
Orthodontist Education and Training
To become an orthodontist, one must complete extensive education and clinical training to specialize in diagnosing and treating skeletal and dental irregularities. The process includes:
Undergraduate Education: Aspiring orthodontists must complete at least two years of post-high school education, but most obtain a bachelor’s degree before applying to dental school.
Dental School (4 Years): After gaining acceptance into dental school, students undergo intensive coursework, covering topics such as oral anatomy, cephalometry, and tooth movement. This stage includes:
Textbook Learning & Exams (First 2 Years)
Clinical Practice & Hands-on Training (Final 2 Years)
Orthodontic Residency (2-3 Years): Following dental school, orthodontists must complete specialized training focused on:
Braces and Corrective Devices
Jaw Realignment Procedures
Advanced Diagnosis of Skeletal & Dental Issues
How Orthodontists Help with Wisdom Tooth-Related Jaw Pain
While orthodontists primarily focus on teeth alignment and bite correction, they may play a role in managing issues caused by wisdom teeth:
Assessment of Jaw Space: If a wisdom tooth is causing jaw pain, an orthodontist can determine whether extraction is necessary to prevent overcrowding or misalignment.
Braces & Retainers: In cases where wisdom teeth shift other teeth, an orthodontist may recommend braces or retainers to restore proper alignment.
Collaboration with Oral Surgeons: If a wisdom tooth is severely impacted, an orthodontist may refer you to an oral surgeon for extraction to prevent long-term complications.
Future Demand for Orthodontists
The demand for orthodontists is expected to increase by 9% in the coming years, as noted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With many older orthodontists retiring, new specialists will have more opportunities to treat patients dealing with jaw pain, misalignment, and wisdom tooth complications.
If you have a wisdom tooth causing jaw pain, don’t ignore the discomfort. Seek advice from a dentist or orthodontist to determine the best course of action. Whether you need wisdom tooth extraction, braces, or jaw realignment, these specialists have the education and expertise to provide effective treatment. A well-trained orthodontist understands the complex relationship between wisdom teeth and jaw pain, ensuring you get the best care for a healthy, pain-free smile!
