Dealing with Decayed Wisdom Teeth: Should You Ignore Them?

Q: Dealing with Decayed Wisdom Teeth: Should You Ignore Them?

Hello Mr. <br>Gimmy： Each tooth in the dental arch has its own function, and especially in ancient times, dental health was a necessary condition for longevity. <br>If there are issues with your teeth, they should be addressed immediately; otherwise, minor problems can escalate i

The issue of cavities in wisdom teeth?

Hello, I have two wisdom teeth that are decayed to the point where only the crowns remain, and the teeth are no longer visible.
However, they do not hurt.
One tooth has a blackened crown, while the other is also decayed but does not have any discoloration; it looks as if there has never been a wisdom tooth there.
Can I leave this situation as it is since there is no pain? Or do I need to have the crowns extracted? If extraction is necessary, how can the crowns be removed if they are level with the gums? Thank you!

Gimmy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/16

Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry

Hello Mr.
Gimmy: Each tooth in the dental arch has its own function, and especially in ancient times, dental health was a necessary condition for longevity.
If there are issues with your teeth, they should be addressed immediately; otherwise, minor problems can escalate into major ones.
Seeking treatment sooner may save your teeth from the fate of extraction.
As for the extraction process, that falls under the expertise of the dentist, so please do not worry.
I believe the vast majority of dentists can handle it.
If there are special circumstances that require a referral, I will recommend you to an oral surgeon.
Wishing you a speedy recovery from dental issues! Dr.
Lin Tel: (06) 6351131-2208 20060417

Reply Date: 2006/04/16

More Info

When it comes to dealing with decayed wisdom teeth, especially in cases where the teeth are severely decayed and only remnants remain, it's essential to approach the situation with caution and informed decision-making. While you may not be experiencing pain at the moment, there are several factors to consider regarding the health of your mouth and the potential consequences of leaving decayed teeth untreated.

Firstly, even if the decayed wisdom teeth are not causing pain, they can still pose risks to your oral health. The presence of decayed tooth remnants can lead to infections, which may not only cause discomfort but can also affect surrounding teeth and gum tissue. Additionally, bacteria can thrive in decayed areas, leading to further decay or gum disease, which can have systemic effects on your overall health.

In your case, where the wisdom teeth are decayed to the point of being just a tooth fragment, it is generally advisable to have them evaluated by a dental professional. Dentists can assess the situation through clinical examination and possibly imaging studies like X-rays to determine the best course of action. Ignoring these teeth might seem like a viable option now, but it could lead to more significant problems down the line, including pain, swelling, or the need for more extensive dental procedures.

If extraction is necessary, the process can be performed even if only a small portion of the tooth remains. Dentists have various techniques and tools to remove tooth fragments safely. They may use local anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. In some cases, if the tooth is particularly difficult to extract due to its condition, a surgical extraction may be required, where the dentist may need to make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth fragment.

Moreover, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene, especially when dealing with decayed teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help minimize the risk of infection and keep your mouth as healthy as possible until you can see a dentist.

In summary, while your wisdom teeth may not be causing immediate discomfort, it is not advisable to ignore them. The potential for complications and the risk of infection make it essential to seek professional dental advice. A dentist can provide you with options for extraction and help you understand the importance of addressing decayed teeth before they lead to more severe health issues. Taking proactive steps now can save you from more complicated and potentially painful procedures in the future.

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