My Wisdom Tooth Broke, But I Can’t Afford Extraction
Posted by AllSmiles
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.
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