Can Wisdom Teeth Be Safely Ground Down Instead of Extracted?

Q: Can Wisdom Teeth Be Safely Ground Down Instead of Extracted?

Hello： It is recommended that you continue to have X-rays taken for monitoring (at least once a month) to confirm the healing status of the wound. <br>If there are any other complications or sequelae, timely intervention can be provided. <br>Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department o

When extracting wisdom teeth, if the wisdom teeth are fused with 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 extract it because my wisdom tooth was decayed and there was no leverage point, so he referred me to a hospital.
However, the hospital has no outpatient services for the next three days, so I went to another clinic.
The dentist there looked at my X-ray and said it was a minor issue, so 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 have to grind down the entire tooth.
He ground down the outer part of the wisdom tooth, leaving the inner part, and said that the inner part was fused with the bone and advised against extraction.
He assured me that it would be fine.
Therefore, I would like to ask if it is acceptable to leave the wisdom tooth unextracted and just 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: 2021/03/21

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: It is recommended that you continue to have X-rays taken for monitoring (at least once a month) to confirm the healing status of the wound.
If there are any other complications or sequelae, timely intervention can be provided.
Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/03/21

More Info

When it comes to wisdom teeth, the decision to extract or grind them down can be complex and depends on various factors, including the position of the tooth, its relationship with adjacent teeth, and the overall dental health of the patient. In your case, it sounds like you encountered a challenging situation where the wisdom tooth was not easily accessible for extraction due to its decay and its proximity to neighboring teeth.

Grinding down a wisdom tooth instead of extracting it can be a viable option in certain circumstances, particularly if the tooth is not causing significant problems and if it can be safely reduced without compromising the surrounding structures. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:
1. Potential for Infection: If a wisdom tooth is decayed or partially erupted, it can create a pocket where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infections such as pericoronitis. Grinding down the tooth may not eliminate the risk of infection, especially if the tooth is not fully erupted or if there are cavities present.

2. Future Complications: While grinding down the tooth may provide temporary relief, it does not address the underlying issues. The remaining tooth structure may still be susceptible to decay, and if the tooth is fused to the bone, it may become more difficult to extract later on if complications arise.

3. Pain and Bleeding: The pain and bleeding you experienced after the grinding procedure could be due to several factors, including trauma to the surrounding gum tissue, inflammation, or even the grinding process itself. It’s not uncommon to experience some discomfort after dental procedures, but if the pain is severe or persistent, it’s essential to follow up with your dentist for further evaluation.

4. Follow-Up Care: After any dental procedure, especially one involving grinding or partial extraction, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and attend follow-up appointments. Your dentist may recommend monitoring the area for signs of infection or further complications.

5. Consultation with a Specialist: If you have concerns about the wisdom tooth or if you experience ongoing pain, it may be beneficial to consult with an oral surgeon or a dental specialist. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and discuss the best course of action, whether that involves further grinding, extraction, or other treatments.

In summary, while grinding down a wisdom tooth can be a temporary solution, it is essential to consider the potential risks and complications associated with this approach. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your dental care provider and to seek further evaluation if you have any concerns about your dental health. If the tooth continues to cause issues, extraction may ultimately be the best option to prevent future complications.

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