Why Does My Tooth Still Rub Against My Gums After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom tooth extraction?

Hello, the doctor wants to ask why my left tooth keeps grinding against the gum.
I went to the dentist, and it was determined that it was the wisdom tooth grinding against the gum, but even after having both upper and lower wisdom teeth extracted, I still feel like my tooth is grinding against the gum.
Why is this happening? Do I need to return to the dentist for an examination?

A Yi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/15

Dr. Zhu Guanyu reply Dentistry

Hello, the molars inevitably come into contact with the buccal mucosa.
However, if the unique position of the molars or malocclusion causes abnormal contact with the buccal mucosa, a medical examination is necessary.
Thank you for your message.
Wishing you peace and health! Dr.
Jian-Fu Tseng, Director of Oral Surgery, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/10/15

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, it is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort or a sensation of teeth rubbing against the gums, even if the wisdom teeth have been removed. This can be attributed to several factors that may require further evaluation by a dental professional.

Firstly, the extraction of wisdom teeth can lead to changes in the alignment of adjacent teeth. When the wisdom teeth are removed, the surrounding teeth may shift slightly due to the absence of the wisdom teeth, which can alter the bite and cause the remaining teeth to come into contact with the gums in a way that they did not before. This misalignment can lead to irritation of the gum tissue, resulting in the sensation of teeth rubbing against the gums.

Secondly, if there are any remaining sharp edges on the adjacent teeth or the extraction site, these can also irritate the gums. After a tooth extraction, the bone and gum tissue need time to heal, and during this healing process, the edges of the bone may be sharp or jagged, which can cause discomfort. If the gum tissue has not fully healed or if there is a flap of gum tissue that is not properly positioned, it can also lead to irritation.

Another possibility is that the sensation you are experiencing could be related to a condition known as "dry socket." This occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket after extraction becomes dislodged or dissolves, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. While this typically occurs within a few days of the extraction, it can lead to significant discomfort and may feel like something is rubbing against the gums.

Additionally, if you have a history of grinding your teeth (bruxism), this can exacerbate the situation. Teeth grinding can lead to uneven wear on the teeth and can cause the teeth to come into contact with the gums in an uncomfortable manner.

Given your ongoing discomfort, it is advisable to return to your dentist for a thorough examination. They can assess the alignment of your teeth, check for any sharp edges, and evaluate the healing of the extraction site. If necessary, they may recommend adjustments or treatments to alleviate the discomfort.
In the meantime, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods can also help minimize irritation to the gums.

If you are considering orthodontic treatment to correct any misalignment, it is important to consult with an orthodontist. While age can be a factor in orthodontic treatment, many adults successfully undergo orthodontic procedures to improve their dental alignment and overall oral health.

In summary, the sensation of teeth rubbing against the gums after wisdom tooth extraction can be due to several factors, including changes in tooth alignment, sharp edges, incomplete healing, or bruxism. A follow-up visit to your dentist is recommended to identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate course of action.

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