My Wisdom Tooth Broke, But I Can’t Afford Extraction

My lower left wisdom tooth cracked over a year ago. I couldn’t and still can’t afford surgery, so the tooth is crumbling. I can see the pulp in the tooth even though it’s partially impacted. It doesn’t hurt, but the tooth is very sensitive to cold and heat. Will it eventually fall out? – Thanks. Shem from MD

Nathan,

We would need to examine and x-ray your tooth to determine its condition, so see a dentist as soon as you can.

Left untreated, a decaying wisdom tooth can lead to severe complications. It may eventually fall out independently but that can be painful and risky. Infection can spread to the surrounding bone, resulting in a painful abscess. To prevent these issues, extraction is often recommended

However, some general considerations can be made:

• Pulp Exposure and Infection: If the pulp is exposed, it’s likely infected and non-vital. This can lead to sensitivity, particularly when biting down.
• Sensitivity to Cold or Air: This suggests the pulp may still be alive, though potentially inflamed.

What Can You Do If You Can’t Afford Wisdom Teeth Removal?

If you can’t afford wisdom teeth removal, below are a few options to explore:

• Monitor and Wait: If there’s no significant swelling or pain, you may monitor the tooth and hope it decays naturally. However, be aware of potential complications and be prepared to see a dentist if symptoms worsen.
• Dental Clinic: Many communities have low-cost dental clinics that provide emergency services, including extractions. Contact local dental societies or health departments for discounted or free services. They may offer discounted fees if you live near a university with a dental school.
• Deferred Treatment: Discuss potential treatment plans with a dentist if you can’t get an immediate extraction. They may recommend a more conservative approach, such as pain management or antibiotics until you can afford the extraction.

Unique Considerations for Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, particularly lower ones, often have more straightforward extraction procedures. The lower jawbone provides easier access to administer anesthesia, reducing the risk of complications associated with infected tissue. A dentist’s treatment recommendations would differ if another tooth were in question.

We haven’t examined your teeth or seen X-rays, so see a dentist promptly.

Rocky Hill, Connecticut, dentist Dr. Thaddeus Michalski sponsors this post. Read how he provides some of the best dental care in Rocky Hill. Ask us about financing to help you pay for treatment.

 

 

Do I Need New Crowns Replaced to Stop My Teeth from Chattering?

I chipped both front teeth as a young teenager. At the time, my dentist filled the chips with dental bonding. I’ve had the bonding replaced several times throughout my life. At 52, my current dentist recommended replacing the bonding with dental crowns. I regret accepting that recommendation. I have six crowns on my upper front teeth. My bite is off, and my teeth chatter. Maybe my anxiety is making it worse. I’ve returned to the dentist multiple times, and she referred me to a periodontist who confirmed that my gums are healthy. Do I need to see another dentist for bite adjustments? Could I need new crowns? Thanks. Emiko from San Diego

 

Emiko,

Your anxiety is understandable. We can’t say whether you would need new crowns without an exam and X-rays. However, we have several concerns and suggestions on how to proceed.

Replacing successful composite bonding with six crowns seems like an overly aggressive approach. A more conservative solution, such as replacing the bonding, might have been sufficient. Referring you to a gum specialist seems irrelevant to your bite problem. A dentist specializing in occlusion can address the bite concerns.

This raises questions about the dentist’s judgment and ethical considerations.

Meticulous attention to occlusion is crucial when performing multiple crown procedures, especially on anterior teeth. This includes ensuring proper centric occlusion, anterior guidance, and canine protection. Any deviation from these principles can lead to long-term dental problems, including the issues you are experiencing with your bite.

Your post-treatment symptoms, including dry mouth, burning sensations, and an urge to clench your teeth, are concerning. The most significant red flag is the bite issue. A well-executed crown procedure gives you a natural and comfortable bite. However, your description of an awkward bite and the desire to clench your teeth suggests potential problems with the occlusion.

Get a Second Opinion from a Qualified Dentist

Given the situation’s complexity, we recommend seeking a second opinion from a dentist with advanced training in occlusion. Dentists who have graduated from institutions like the Pankey Institute, Dawson Academy, Spear Education Center, or the Las Vegas Institute possess the necessary expertise to diagnose and treat complex occlusal issues.

Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, sponsors this post. Read why his patients think he is the best dentist in Rocky Hill.