Can Wisdom Tooth Extraction and Microscopic Root Canal Treatment Be Done Together? - Dentistry

Share to:

Can wisdom tooth extraction and microscopic root canal treatment be performed simultaneously?


I recently scheduled a microscopic root canal treatment (currently in progress) for two teeth.
I also discovered that I have a horizontally impacted wisdom tooth (which has been inflamed before), so I thought it would be a good idea to address it during the summer break.
Can these two procedures be done together? Both doctors are from the same hospital (general and specialist).
If it is possible, how long should I wait after having the wisdom tooth extracted before seeing the specialist for the microscopic root canal (the root canal appointment will be scheduled first)? The microscopic procedure requires keeping my mouth open for 1 to 2 hours and biting on a rubber dam, which makes me concerned that it might affect or put pressure on the extraction site, potentially hindering proper treatment.
If I have to wait until the microscopic root canal is completed, it might take the entire summer (the specialist only sees patients once a week and has limited slots).
I'm worried that after school starts, I won't have much time to get the wisdom tooth extracted.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/27

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry


Hello: If it's the same hospital, it is advisable to consult the doctors there.
A tooth that is halfway through a root canal treatment is very fragile, and if it breaks during extraction, it can lead to complications.
The healing time for an extraction site can be lengthy, and opening the mouth too wide for too long can also pose a risk of reopening the original wound.

Reply Date: 2023/05/27

More Info


When considering whether to undergo wisdom tooth extraction and microscopic root canal treatment simultaneously, several factors must be taken into account. Both procedures involve significant manipulation of the oral cavity, and the timing and order of these treatments can greatly affect healing and overall outcomes.

Firstly, it is essential to understand the nature of both procedures. Wisdom tooth extraction, especially if the tooth is impacted or has a history of inflammation, can lead to swelling, discomfort, and a healing period that may complicate subsequent dental treatments. Microscopic root canal treatment, on the other hand, requires a stable environment in the mouth, as it involves intricate work on the tooth's interior structure. If the extraction site is still healing, the manipulation required for root canal treatment could potentially disrupt the healing process, leading to complications such as increased pain or infection.

Given that both procedures are being performed by dentists within the same hospital, it is advisable to consult with both specialists. They can provide insights based on your specific dental health, the complexity of your wisdom tooth extraction, and the condition of the teeth requiring root canal treatment. Coordination between the two dentists is crucial to ensure that the timing of the procedures is optimal for healing and recovery.

If you decide to proceed with both treatments, it is generally recommended to allow a healing period after the wisdom tooth extraction before undergoing root canal treatment. This period can vary, but a common recommendation is to wait at least one to two weeks. This timeframe allows for initial healing of the extraction site, reducing the risk of complications during the root canal procedure. However, the exact duration should be determined based on your individual healing response and the advice of your dental professionals.

Regarding your concern about the root canal treatment requiring you to keep your mouth open for an extended period, this is a valid point. Prolonged mouth opening can place stress on the jaw and the extraction site, potentially leading to discomfort or complications. If you have recently undergone wisdom tooth extraction, the pressure and positioning required during the root canal treatment could exacerbate any residual pain or swelling.

In summary, while it is technically possible to perform both procedures in close succession, it is generally advisable to space them out to allow for proper healing. Consult with both your general dentist and the specialist performing the root canal to create a treatment plan that prioritizes your health and comfort. They can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific situation, ensuring that both procedures are performed safely and effectively. Always prioritize open communication with your dental care providers to achieve the best possible outcomes for your oral health.

Similar Q&A

Can Wisdom Teeth Undergo Root Canal Treatment? Expert Insights Explained

Hello Doctor: I previously had treatment for my upper right wisdom tooth due to cavities, but it has started to hurt again recently. I visited two clinics, and both said that it can only be extracted. Is it true that a wisdom tooth cannot undergo root canal treatment? Is microsco...


Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: If both dentists have examined the case and recommended extraction, the chances of successful root canal treatment are likely very low. If you really do not want to have it extracted and wish to seek a third opinion, it is advisable to visit a medical center, where it may ...

[Read More] Can Wisdom Teeth Undergo Root Canal Treatment? Expert Insights Explained


Microscopic Root Canal Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients

Hello, about fifteen years ago, I had treatment done on the upper right incisor and the adjacent teeth (teeth 2, 3, and 4) and received a dental prosthesis, but it was not handled well. Tooth 4 started to hurt again three years ago, and an X-ray showed a dark spot on the root. Th...


Dr. Liu Tiancai reply Dentistry
Hello: Your X-ray examination shows a shadow indicating a bacterial infection within the root canal. It is necessary to remove the original filling and undergo retreatment. Microscopic treatment can indeed provide a safer and more reliable therapeutic effect. You may visit Taipei...

[Read More] Microscopic Root Canal Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients


Should Tooth Extraction and Periodontal Treatment Be Done Together?

Hello Dr. Tseng: Currently, the orthodontic plan includes the extraction of three wisdom teeth. However, last week, a periodontal assessment was conducted, and due to mild periodontal symptoms, periodontal treatment is needed (including root planing, laser therapy, and microscale...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If the wisdom tooth that needs to be extracted has severe periodontal symptoms, including pericoronitis or the presence of abscesses, it is recommended to perform periodontal treatment first before extracting the wisdom tooth. If there is no improvement, both procedures can be do...

[Read More] Should Tooth Extraction and Periodontal Treatment Be Done Together?


Is Microsurgery the Only Option for Incomplete Root Canals?

After experiencing tooth decay in my molars in 2019, I underwent root canal treatment and received a crown at a certain clinic. After the crown was placed, I still felt some pain when lightly tapping on it. When I returned for a follow-up, the dentist assured me that it was impos...


Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: It is recommended that you return to the original clinic (the one where you had the root canal and dentures done) and have the original dentist address your concerns until you are satisfied with the outcome. If the clinic is unable to resolve the issue, please request a re...

[Read More] Is Microsurgery the Only Option for Incomplete Root Canals?


Related FAQ

Root Canal Treatment

(Dentistry)

Tooth Extraction

(Dentistry)

Wisdom Teeth

(Dentistry)

Post-Extraction

(Dentistry)

Local Anesthesia

(Dentistry)

Apicoectomy

(Dentistry)

Nerve Extraction

(Dentistry)

Instrument Sterilization

(Dentistry)

Root Fracture

(Dentistry)

Pain

(Dentistry)