Is It Normal to See a Gap After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

After the extraction of the wisdom tooth, there is a hole between the gums below the last molar and behind it?

Hello, doctor.
It has been 11 days since I had my impacted wisdom tooth removed and the stitches taken out.
After the swelling has subsided, I looked in the mirror and noticed what seems to be a black hole between the gums of my last molar and the one behind it.
When I use dental floss, I can see that the last molar and the adjacent gum seem to be disconnected, as I can thread the floss all the way down to the bottom of the tooth without any pain.
However, it feels strange when I rinse my mouth.
Is this normal, or does it indicate that it hasn't healed properly? Will there be a chance for the gap between the last molar and the adjacent gum to close up in the future?

kiki, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/13

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Miss Kiki,
Hello! It's actually normal.
As long as there is no redness or swelling, there is no problem! Make sure to brush your teeth thoroughly! The gum will gradually grow back! Take care! Wishing you peace and smoothness in everything!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2020/10/13

More Info

After a wisdom tooth extraction, it's not uncommon to notice some gaps or spaces in the gum area, especially in the days and weeks following the procedure. The situation you described, where you see a "black hole" or gap between your last molar and the adjacent gum tissue, can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process.

Firstly, when a tooth is extracted, the body goes through a natural healing process. This includes the formation of a blood clot in the socket where the tooth was removed, which is essential for healing. As the healing progresses, the gum tissue will gradually fill in the space left by the extraction. However, during this healing phase, it is possible to see gaps or spaces, particularly if the extraction was complicated or if the tooth was impacted, as is often the case with wisdom teeth.

The absence of pain is a positive sign, indicating that there may not be an active infection or complication at this stage. However, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene during this time to prevent any potential infections. Gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and promote healing. Avoid using dental floss aggressively in the area until you are sure the gum tissue has healed sufficiently.

Regarding your concern about whether the gap will eventually close, it is likely that the gum tissue will heal and fill in the space over time. However, the extent to which this occurs can vary based on individual healing processes, the complexity of the extraction, and how well you care for the area post-surgery. In some cases, if the gap remains significant or if there are concerns about the healing process, a follow-up visit to your dentist or oral surgeon may be warranted. They can assess the area and determine if any additional treatment is necessary.

If you continue to notice the gap after a few weeks or if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as increased swelling, pain, or discharge, it is essential to consult your dentist. They may recommend further evaluation to ensure that the healing process is proceeding as expected.

In summary, while it is not unusual to see a gap after wisdom tooth extraction, it is essential to monitor the area for any changes. With proper care, the gum tissue should heal and fill in the space over time. If you have any concerns or if the situation does not improve, do not hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider for guidance.

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