Impacted Wisdom Tooth: Risks of Floss Fragments and Infection

Wisdom tooth gap

Hello, I would like to ask about a situation where the pointed end of a dental floss pick broke off while cleaning between my wisdom tooth and the adjacent tooth.
The broken piece has fallen into the gap between the wisdom tooth and the adjacent tooth, and it is not visible to the naked eye.
If the piece is not removed, could it cause an infection? If I go to the dentist, will they be able to retrieve it, or will I have to have the wisdom tooth extracted? Thank you.

shawn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/20

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If the end of the dental floss breaks off and gets stuck between your teeth, you should see a dentist to have it removed to prevent future gum inflammation or infection.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/10/20

More Info

When it comes to impacted wisdom teeth and the potential risks associated with floss fragments, it is essential to understand the anatomy of the mouth and the implications of foreign objects being lodged between teeth. The wisdom teeth, or third molars, are often prone to impaction due to lack of space in the jaw, which can lead to various complications, including infection.

If a fragment of dental floss has broken off and is lodged between your wisdom tooth and the adjacent tooth, there is a possibility that it could lead to infection, especially if it remains there for an extended period. The mouth is a warm, moist environment that can promote bacterial growth, and any foreign object can serve as a site for bacteria to thrive. This can lead to conditions such as pericoronitis, which is an infection of the soft tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth, or even more severe infections that can affect the jaw and surrounding tissues.

If you are unable to see the fragment with the naked eye, it is still advisable to seek dental care. A dentist can perform a thorough examination, possibly using X-rays to determine the exact location of the floss fragment. Depending on the situation, the dentist may be able to retrieve the fragment using specialized tools. In many cases, dentists can remove foreign objects without the need for more invasive procedures like tooth extraction.

However, if the fragment is not removed and you start to experience symptoms such as swelling, pain, or difficulty opening your mouth, it may indicate an infection. In such cases, prompt treatment is crucial. The dentist may prescribe antibiotics to manage the infection and alleviate symptoms. If the wisdom tooth is severely impacted or if there are recurrent infections, extraction of the wisdom tooth may be recommended as a more definitive solution.

In summary, while a small fragment of dental floss may not immediately cause an infection, it is essential to monitor for any signs of complications. Seeking dental care is the best course of action to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively. Regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene can also help prevent such situations from occurring in the future.

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