Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect the Height or Alignment of Other Teeth?

Will extracting wisdom teeth affect other teeth?

About a week ago, I had my horizontal wisdom tooth extracted at the clinic.
During the extraction, the crown of my second molar came off and was kept by the doctor.
After seven days, I had my stitches removed, and the crown was reattached.
However, after it was reattached, the height of the second molar became significantly elevated, making it difficult to achieve proper occlusion.
The doctor adjusted the crown multiple times, but I still felt a protrusion when biting down.
The doctor advised me to observe the situation for a few more days at home.

After 2-3 days at home, I noticed that every time I ate, there was a noticeable discomfort on that side, which made me wonder why a crown that had been in place for so long would suddenly not fit after the wisdom tooth extraction.
I would like to ask the doctor if the extraction of a wisdom tooth can affect the height or angle of other teeth?

zhuō, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/20

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Chuang,
Hello! It appears that the original dentures are about to fall out, and they have become ill-fitting just one week after placement, which is uncommon.
There is slight movement of the teeth.
Is there a possibility of periodontal disease? I plan to conduct a more detailed examination.

Reply Date: 2020/11/20

More Info

The extraction of wisdom teeth can indeed have an impact on the alignment and height of adjacent teeth, although the extent of this effect can vary based on individual circumstances. When a wisdom tooth is removed, especially if it is impacted or positioned horizontally, the surrounding teeth may experience slight shifts due to the changes in the dental arch. This is particularly true if there was pre-existing crowding or misalignment in the mouth.

In your case, the extraction of the wisdom tooth coincided with the loss of the crown on your second molar, which was subsequently reattached. The fact that you are experiencing a noticeable change in the height of the second molar after the crown was reattached suggests that there may have been some movement or adjustment in the surrounding teeth during the extraction process. This can happen because the removal of a tooth can alter the forces acting on the remaining teeth, leading to a slight realignment or adjustment in their positions.

Moreover, the adjustment period after any dental procedure, including the reattachment of a crown, can also play a significant role. After a dental adjustment, it often takes time for the bite to feel normal again as the muscles and teeth adapt to the new configuration. If the crown was adjusted multiple times and still feels high, it may indicate that the bite is not yet properly aligned, or that the crown itself may need further modification to achieve a comfortable fit.

It is also important to consider the condition of the surrounding teeth and gums. If there is any underlying periodontal disease or if the teeth are not stable, this could further complicate the situation. Teeth can shift due to changes in the support structures, and if the adjacent teeth are not properly aligned or supported, they may move in response to the extraction.

In terms of recovery and adjustment, it is crucial to monitor how your bite feels over the next few days. If the discomfort persists or if you continue to feel that the second molar is too high, it would be advisable to return to your dentist for a thorough evaluation. They may need to take additional adjustments to ensure that your bite is properly aligned and that the crown fits comfortably.

In conclusion, while wisdom tooth extraction can influence the alignment and height of adjacent teeth, the specific impact can vary based on individual dental health and the circumstances surrounding the extraction. It is essential to maintain open communication with your dentist and follow their recommendations for follow-up care to ensure optimal healing and alignment of your teeth. If you have any concerns about the fit of your dental work or the alignment of your teeth, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation and treatment.

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