Gum Inflammation: Should You Extract Your Wisdom Tooth? - Dentistry

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When it comes to wisdom teeth and gum inflammation, your situation raises several important considerations. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing significant discomfort due to a swollen abscess near your lower left wisdom tooth, which has been diagnosed as severe gum inflammation. The recommendation from your local dentist to extract the tooth is based on a few critical factors, which I will address in detail.

1. Should You Follow the Dentist's Recommendation to Extract the Tooth?
Given the severity of your gum inflammation and the fact that the tooth is already showing signs of mobility, it is advisable to consider the extraction. Wisdom teeth often become problematic due to their position in the mouth, which can make them difficult to clean properly. If the inflammation is severe enough that cleaning is not possible, it can lead to recurrent infections, pain, and further complications. Additionally, if the tooth is loose, it may be more susceptible to further infection and could potentially affect the surrounding teeth and gums.

2. Timing of the Extraction:
It is generally preferable to perform the extraction after the swelling has subsided. This is because performing surgery on an inflamed area can increase the risk of complications, such as excessive bleeding and infection. If you can manage the inflammation with appropriate treatment (such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications), it would be wise to wait until the area is less swollen before proceeding with the extraction.

3. Delaying the Extraction Until You Return to Taiwan:
While it is possible to wait until you return home for the extraction, this decision should be made with caution. Delaying treatment could lead to worsening of the infection, which might not only affect the wisdom tooth but also the adjacent molar. If the inflammation has already extended to the gums of the adjacent tooth, it could lead to further complications, including periodontal disease. Therefore, if you are experiencing significant pain or if the swelling worsens, it would be prudent to proceed with the extraction sooner rather than later.

4. Impact of Extracting One Wisdom Tooth on the Opposite Tooth:
The concern about the upper left wisdom tooth not having a corresponding tooth to bite against is valid. However, in most cases, the absence of a corresponding wisdom tooth does not lead to significant functional issues. The primary role of wisdom teeth is often limited, and many people live without them without any adverse effects on their bite or overall dental health. That said, if you have concerns about your bite or alignment, it may be beneficial to discuss these with your dentist or an orthodontist.

In conclusion, while the recommendation to extract your wisdom tooth seems justified given the circumstances, it is essential to ensure that the procedure is done under optimal conditions, ideally after the inflammation has subsided. If you choose to wait until you return to Taiwan, be vigilant about monitoring your symptoms and seek immediate care if the situation worsens. Your dental health is paramount, and addressing these issues promptly will help prevent further complications. Always feel free to seek a second opinion if you have doubts about the treatment plan suggested by your current dentist.