Can You Leave a Partially Extracted Wisdom Tooth? Risks and Concerns

Q: Can You Leave a Partially Extracted Wisdom Tooth? Risks and Concerns

Hello： Since all the teeth have been ground down, the area where it is bonded to the bone will just need to wait for it to re-integrate with the bone. <br>As you mentioned, it should be a challenging surgery, and the wound is also significant. <br>Please make sure to take good ca

When extracting wisdom teeth, if the teeth are fused to the bone, they may be difficult to remove?

Hello, doctor.
The day before yesterday, I went to have my upper right wisdom tooth extracted.
I visited the first dental clinic, but halfway through the procedure, the dentist told me he couldn't continue because my wisdom tooth was decayed and lacked a proper leverage point.
He advised me to go to a hospital, but the hospital had no outpatient services for the next three days.
So, I went to another clinic where the dentist reviewed my X-rays and said it was a minor issue.
He started the extraction, but halfway through, he said my wisdom tooth was fused with the adjacent tooth and couldn't be removed.
I heard the sound of him crushing the wisdom tooth, and then he said he would need to grind down the entire tooth.
He ground down the outer part of the wisdom tooth, leaving the inner part, and he mentioned that it was fused with the bone and advised against extraction.
He said it would be fine and that there was no need to worry! Therefore, I would like to ask if it is acceptable to leave the wisdom tooth unremoved and only grind it down? Also, why is there still bleeding and pain even though the tooth wasn't fully extracted?

Xiao Yan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/17

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: Since all the teeth have been ground down, the area where it is bonded to the bone will just need to wait for it to re-integrate with the bone.
As you mentioned, it should be a challenging surgery, and the wound is also significant.
Please make sure to take good care of the extraction site and have regular follow-up X-rays.
If there are any signs of nerve impairment, please increase your intake of vitamin B.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/03/17

More Info

Leaving a partially extracted wisdom tooth can pose several risks and concerns that should be carefully considered. When a dentist attempts to extract a wisdom tooth and is unable to do so completely, it can lead to a variety of complications. Here are some key points to understand regarding your situation:
1. Risk of Infection: One of the primary concerns with leaving a portion of a wisdom tooth in place is the risk of infection. The remaining tooth structure can create a pocket where bacteria can thrive, leading to pericoronitis (inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the tooth) or other infections. Symptoms may include swelling, pain, and difficulty opening the mouth.

2. Pain and Discomfort: As you mentioned, you are experiencing pain and bleeding even after the partial extraction. This can be due to several factors, including inflammation of the surrounding tissues, trauma from the extraction process, or the presence of the remaining tooth fragment. Pain can also be exacerbated by the body's inflammatory response to any injury or infection.

3. Potential for Cysts or Tumors: Leaving a portion of a wisdom tooth can increase the risk of developing cysts or tumors in the jawbone. These can occur if the remnants of the tooth become encapsulated in tissue, leading to further complications that may require surgical intervention in the future.

4. Impact on Adjacent Teeth: A partially extracted wisdom tooth can affect the alignment and health of adjacent teeth. If the remaining tooth structure is not monitored, it may lead to shifting of nearby teeth or additional dental issues.

5. Follow-Up Care: It is crucial to have follow-up appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon to monitor the situation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the healing process and determine if further intervention is necessary.

6. Management of Symptoms: For pain management, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful. However, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

7. When to Seek Immediate Care: If you experience severe pain, swelling, fever, or any signs of infection (such as pus or increased bleeding), you should seek immediate dental care. These symptoms could indicate a serious complication that requires prompt treatment.

In conclusion, while it may be possible to leave a partially extracted wisdom tooth, it is not without risks. It is essential to maintain open communication with your dental care provider and follow their recommendations for monitoring and managing your condition. If you have concerns about the current state of your tooth or the pain you are experiencing, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or further evaluation from a dental specialist. Your oral health is paramount, and addressing these issues promptly can help prevent more significant complications in the future.

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