Will My Wisdom Tooth Surgery Cause Nerve Damage?

My lower right wisdom tooth is partially impacted. I’m 35 now, so my risk of nerve damage is probably higher. I saw an oral surgeon last week. The surgeon reviewed the X-ray from my dentist and said he recommends removing the tooth. The surgeon didn’t take a 3D scan. How do I know whether nerve damage is a factor? Thanks. Khalid

Khalid,

It’s a common misconception that wisdom teeth should only be addressed when they start causing problems. Your situation highlights why this thinking can be problematic. Wisdom teeth are significantly easier to remove before their roots fully form, thicken, and before the surrounding bone becomes denser. For you, the extraction will likely be more complex now. However, your lower left wisdom tooth needs to be removed; delaying the procedure will only increase the risks and difficulty, and it’s only a matter of time before an infection develops.

What’s the Risk of Nerve Damage with Wisdom Tooth Removal?

We can offer some reassurance regarding your lower left wisdom tooth: it doesn’t appear to be impinging on your nerve. While any responsible oral surgeon will mention some inherent risk (as there always is), a 3D scan should enable them to safely navigate around the nerve. Be aware that some oral surgeons may overstate the risks to protect themselves legally, but this doesn’t diminish the procedure’s safety with careful planning.

Concerns About Your Other Wisdom Teeth

We are less certain about your lower right wisdom tooth. The roots appear very close to the nerve canal, possibly even wrapping around it. The tooth’s angle, while making extraction more difficult, isn’t a risk. Being close to a root canal tooth simply means the surgeon needs to be more precise; however, a skilled surgeon should manage the removal effectively. This procedure should not permanently alter your facial structure; while swelling is expected initially, it will subside within a few days.

We advise ensuring you have an excellent oral surgeon perform this procedure. It would be wise to have them remove both your upper wisdom teeth at the same time. They are also impacted and need to be extracted. Additionally, ask your surgeon to evaluate the proximity of the lower right wisdom tooth to the nerve using the 3D scan, and consider having it removed as well, unless it genuinely impinges on the nerve.

 

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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.