Wisdom Teeth Issues: Pain Management and Treatment Options

Reasons and Issues Related to Not Extracting Wisdom Teeth

Hello, doctor.
One of my wisdom teeth is coming in straight, but the other one is coming in crooked.
I have a strong fear of visiting the dentist, so I've been enduring the pain and inflammation with anti-inflammatory medication.
Recently, while chewing on a chicken bone, my inflamed wisdom tooth broke into pieces, which also affected the adjacent teeth, causing some damage there as well.
I would like to know if this will impact the teeth in front of the wisdom tooth.
I'm considering getting dental fillings and possibly orthodontic treatment, but I previously had a filling on a tooth next to my front teeth due to a cavity, and the dentist had to perform a root canal on that tooth.
Since that experience, I've been too afraid to see a dentist.
Are there any treatments available for my teeth that are less painful?

Wu, Siao-Shan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/06/12

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If the wisdom tooth has erupted at an angle and has fractured due to biting into a bone, the degree of its misalignment needs to be assessed.
If it is pressing against the adjacent teeth and causing recurrent inflammation, extraction of the wisdom tooth is recommended.
For the fractured adjacent tooth, if the damage is minimal, it may be considered for filling.
However, if the fracture is extensive and affects the tooth's nerve, root canal treatment will be necessary.

Reply Date: 2015/06/12

More Info

Dealing with wisdom teeth issues can be quite challenging, especially when pain and discomfort are involved. It’s understandable to feel apprehensive about dental visits, particularly if past experiences have been painful. However, addressing your concerns is crucial for your overall dental health.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that wisdom teeth, or third molars, can often lead to complications, especially if they are impacted or growing at an angle. When a wisdom tooth is partially erupted or misaligned, it can create a space that traps food and bacteria, leading to inflammation and infection. This situation can also affect adjacent teeth, as you mentioned, potentially causing pain or damage to those teeth as well.

In your case, since you’ve experienced a fracture in your wisdom tooth and it has affected nearby teeth, it’s essential to seek professional dental care. Ignoring the problem can lead to more severe issues, including infections that could spread to other areas of your mouth or even systemic health problems.
Regarding pain management, there are several options available. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate discomfort temporarily. However, these are not long-term solutions and should not replace professional dental treatment.
When it comes to dental procedures, modern dentistry has made significant advancements in pain management. Many dentists now offer sedation options, which can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during your appointment. Sedation dentistry can range from mild sedation, where you remain awake but relaxed, to deeper sedation, where you may not remember the procedure at all. Discussing these options with your dentist can help alleviate your anxiety about pain during treatment.

If your wisdom tooth is causing significant issues, your dentist may recommend extraction. While the thought of extraction can be daunting, it is often the best course of action to prevent further complications. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and many patients report minimal discomfort afterward. Your dentist can provide you with post-operative care instructions to manage any pain or swelling effectively.

Additionally, if you are considering restorative work on your adjacent teeth, such as fillings or crowns, it’s crucial to address the wisdom tooth issue first. Treating the wisdom tooth can prevent further damage to the surrounding teeth and ensure that any restorative work is successful.

In summary, while the fear of dental pain is valid, avoiding treatment can lead to more significant problems down the line. It’s essential to communicate your fears with your dentist, who can provide options to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Early intervention can save you from more extensive and painful procedures in the future. Remember, maintaining your dental health is vital, and addressing issues as they arise is the best way to ensure a healthy smile.

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