How Soon Can You Fill a Cavity After Wisdom Tooth Extraction? - Dentistry

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After having your wisdom teeth extracted, it's important to consider the healing process before addressing other dental issues, such as filling a cavity. Generally, the timeline for when you can fill a cavity after wisdom tooth extraction varies depending on individual healing rates and the complexity of the extraction.

Typically, after a wisdom tooth extraction, the initial healing phase lasts about one to two weeks. During this time, the extraction site forms a blood clot, which is crucial for healing. If you have had stitches, they are usually removed within a week or so, depending on your dentist's or oral surgeon's protocol. After the stitches are removed, the site may still be sensitive and not fully healed.
In your case, since your oral surgeon mentioned that the extraction site was not fully healed as of August 10, it would be advisable to wait until the area has completely healed before proceeding with the filling of your cavity. This is because any dental work done too soon could potentially disrupt the healing process, leading to complications such as infection or delayed healing.

Regarding your concern about the cavity being covered by the healing tissue, it is indeed possible for the gums to grow over a cavity if the healing process is prolonged. However, this does not mean that the cavity will automatically worsen. The decay process typically requires exposure to bacteria and food particles, which may be limited if the area is healing properly. Nevertheless, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene during this time to minimize the risk of further decay.

If you are eager to address the cavity, consider discussing your concerns with your dentist. They may be able to provide a more tailored recommendation based on the specific condition of your extraction site and cavity. In some cases, they might suggest a temporary filling or other measures to protect the tooth until you can safely proceed with a permanent filling.

In summary, while it may be tempting to address the cavity as soon as possible, prioritizing the healing of your extraction site is essential. Waiting until the area is fully healed will help ensure that any dental work performed will be successful and will not interfere with your recovery. Always follow your dentist's advice and communicate any concerns you may have regarding your dental health.