How Soon Can I Treat Cavities After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

[Inquiry] After extracting the lower right impacted wisdom tooth, how long should I wait before treating the teeth on the left side?

Hello Doctor: I had my lower right horizontal wisdom tooth extracted, and the wound has been sutured (the extraction was referred to oral surgery by my doctor).
However, I have (1) a cavity on the lower left side and (2) a gap in my previous dental crown that needs to be remade to prevent further decay.
I am concerned about the possibility of the right side wound being pulled.
How long should I wait before addressing the cavity on the left side and remaking the dental crown?

Lai Xiao-Zhen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/06

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
Lai Hsiao-Chen,
Hello! The treatment for your left-side tooth should be completed in about two weeks.
Please take care! Wishing you all the best and a smooth recovery!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2019/07/06

More Info

After having your wisdom tooth extracted, it's understandable to be concerned about the timing of treating cavities and addressing dental work like crowns. Generally, the healing process after a wisdom tooth extraction can vary from person to person, but there are some guidelines that can help you determine when it might be safe to proceed with additional dental treatments.

Typically, it is recommended to wait at least 1 to 2 weeks after a wisdom tooth extraction before undergoing any further dental procedures, such as treating cavities or placing crowns. This waiting period allows the extraction site to heal sufficiently, reducing the risk of complications such as infection or excessive bleeding. During this time, your body is working to close the wound and regenerate the tissue, which is crucial for a successful recovery.

In your specific case, since you mentioned that your extraction site has been sutured, it is essential to ensure that the stitches have dissolved or been removed and that the area feels stable before proceeding with any additional dental work. If you experience any unusual pain, swelling, or signs of infection, it is crucial to consult your dentist or oral surgeon before scheduling further treatments.

When it comes to treating cavities on the left side, it is advisable to discuss your concerns with your dentist. They can assess the healing progress of your extraction site and determine if it is safe to proceed with treating the cavities. If the extraction site is healing well and there are no complications, your dentist may feel comfortable treating the cavities sooner rather than later.

Regarding the crown for your previous dental work, if there are gaps or issues with your existing crown, it is essential to address these as well. A compromised crown can lead to further decay or damage to the underlying tooth structure. Your dentist will likely want to evaluate the condition of the tooth that requires the crown and may recommend waiting until the extraction site has healed before proceeding with this treatment.

In summary, while the general guideline is to wait 1 to 2 weeks after wisdom tooth extraction before addressing other dental issues, the best course of action is to consult with your dentist. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation, the condition of your extraction site, and the severity of the cavities. Regular follow-up appointments will help ensure that your oral health is managed effectively and that any necessary treatments are performed at the appropriate time.

Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene during this healing period is crucial. Be gentle when brushing near the extraction site, and consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinsing with warm salt water can also help keep the area clean and promote healing. If you smoke, it is advisable to reduce or quit smoking, as it can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

Ultimately, communication with your dental care provider is key to ensuring a smooth recovery and addressing any dental issues promptly and safely.

Similar Q&A

Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Care and Cavity Treatment Guidelines

1. It has been one week since I had my wisdom teeth extracted (the upper and lower right wisdom teeth), and I just had my stitches removed. I currently have a cavity in my upper right first molar that is being treated with medication. How long after wisdom tooth extraction can I ...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: 1. It is recommended to wait until the wound has completely healed and there is no pain when opening your mouth before proceeding with dental treatment. 2. Maintain good oral hygiene, keep a regular schedule, and avoid irritants such as tobacco and alcohol. 3. Once the wou...

Dealing with Cavities After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Know

On April 22, I had my wisdom teeth extracted, and I am scheduled to have my stitches removed on April 29. However, on the 26th, I noticed that my molar is very painful, and I suspect it may be a cavity (this is not the first time it has hurt; this molar has been filled once befor...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Wen, Hello! 1. Can I have my dental caries treated on the same day as my suture removal? Yes, you can have the dental caries treated on the same day. 2. Can I have a teeth cleaning after the treatment for dental caries? Yes, you can. 3. Should I have a teeth cleaning ...

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

Doctor, how long after having my impacted wisdom teeth removed can I go to fill my second molar cavity? The doctor at Chang Gung said on August 4th that I could go to the dentist as soon as the stitches were removed. However, the dentist I saw on August 10th said that the wound h...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: It is usually recommended to wait until the wound has fully healed before proceeding with the filling, as it may require keeping your mouth open for an extended period to properly treat the cavity. Wishing you peace and good health!

Understanding Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Recovery Time and Care Tips

Recently, during my regular check-up at a clinic near my home, I discovered that my second molar has a cavity and there are also some cavities near my wisdom tooth. The dentist recommended that I have my wisdom tooth extracted since it is growing at an angle and is difficult to c...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: Initial wound healing typically takes about one week. Normal brushing and eating should be possible within a month. However, to achieve complete absence of any foreign body sensation, it may take approximately six months. Thank you!