Wisdom Teeth: Why Extraction May Affect Adjacent Molars

Wisdom teeth

I went to the clinic due to tooth pain and discovered that my wisdom tooth was growing at an angle, which caused decay in my second molar.
After having the wisdom tooth extracted, I noticed that my second molar was extremely loose.
The dentist believed that the extraction might have caused the looseness.
However, after waiting 4.5 months, the tooth is still loose and I am unable to chew food.
The dentist suspects that the bone may have been damaged.
If I were to get a crown, there is still a possibility that the tooth could fall out.
To avoid wasting the tooth, the dentist performed a root canal (but it was not done thoroughly) and filled the second molar.
My confusion lies in the fact that the wisdom tooth was intact; why not extract the decayed second molar and place a bridge instead of insisting on removing the wisdom tooth? Now, my upper wisdom tooth and second molar have the same issue.
Should I undergo the same treatment for them?

MM, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/06/07

Dr. Zhuang Suhui reply Dentistry

Hello, the wisdom tooth is positioned too far back and is misaligned.
If it is to be used as a support tooth for a dental bridge, it must first be corrected.
Additionally, due to its location, it is often associated with cavities and periodontal disease.
Therefore, it is generally not recommended to use it as a support tooth.
This information is provided by Dr.
Chuang Su-Hui, Director of the Dental Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2009/06/07

More Info

The relationship between wisdom teeth and adjacent molars is a topic of considerable interest in dentistry, particularly when it comes to the potential complications that can arise from the extraction of wisdom teeth. Your experience highlights a common concern: why the extraction of a wisdom tooth can lead to issues with nearby molars, such as loosening or decay.

Firstly, wisdom teeth, or third molars, are often removed due to their position and the complications they can cause. When wisdom teeth are impacted or grow at an angle, they can exert pressure on the adjacent second molars. This pressure can lead to several problems, including:
1. Decay in Adjacent Molars: As you mentioned, the improper positioning of a wisdom tooth can make it difficult to clean the area effectively, leading to food traps and increased risk of cavities in the second molar. If the second molar develops decay, it may require treatment such as a filling or even extraction.

2. Bone Loss: The extraction of a wisdom tooth can sometimes lead to changes in the bone structure surrounding the adjacent molars. If the bone is compromised during the extraction, it may not support the second molar adequately, leading to mobility or loss of that tooth.

3. Infection and Inflammation: After the extraction of a wisdom tooth, there is a risk of infection or inflammation in the surrounding tissues. This can affect the stability of adjacent teeth and may lead to further complications.

4. Changes in Bite and Alignment: The removal of a wisdom tooth can alter the way your teeth align and bite together. This change can put additional stress on the adjacent molars, potentially leading to issues like mobility or discomfort.

In your case, it seems that the extraction of the wisdom tooth may have inadvertently contributed to the instability of the second molar. If the second molar was already compromised due to decay, the extraction could have exacerbated the situation, leading to further bone loss or damage.

Regarding your question about why the dentist chose to extract the wisdom tooth instead of the decayed second molar, there are several reasons for this approach:
- Preventive Measure: Dentists often recommend the extraction of wisdom teeth as a preventive measure, especially if they are impacted or at risk of causing future problems. The goal is to prevent further complications that could arise from keeping the wisdom tooth.

- Long-Term Viability: If the second molar is salvageable through treatment (like a filling or root canal), it may be preferable to keep it rather than extracting it. The second molar is typically more functional than a wisdom tooth, which often has no significant role in chewing.

- Complexity of Extraction: Sometimes, the extraction of a wisdom tooth can be more straightforward than dealing with a decayed molar, especially if the molar has significant damage or if the extraction of the molar would require more extensive procedures.

As for your current situation with the upper wisdom tooth and the second molar, it is essential to consult with your dentist or an oral surgeon. They can evaluate the condition of both teeth and recommend the best course of action. If the upper wisdom tooth is also causing issues, it may be necessary to consider its extraction as well.

In summary, while the extraction of wisdom teeth can lead to complications with adjacent molars, it is often a necessary step to prevent further dental issues. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your dental care provider to address any concerns and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment for your specific situation.

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