What if I have a broken wisdom tooth?

Many patients have their wisdom teeth removed prior to their full development but not everyone requires wisdom tooth extraction.

If you suffer from a cracked or broken wisdom tooth there are treatment options.

Call your dentist

If you believe that you’ve cracked or broken one of your wisdom teeth, you need to make an appointment to see your dentist immediately. Leaving a broken tooth untreated can lead to further complications.

X-ray examination

Before making a recommendation for the treatment of your broken wisdom tooth, your dentist will take an X-ray to determine the extent of the damage. At this point, your dentist will also look at the position of your wisdom teeth to see if they are causing any issues with your bite or teeth alignment, or if they’re at risk for gum disease or decay. If the tooth presents additional challenges to your oral health, your dentist may recommend removing the tooth instead of repairing it.

Minor cracks

If your dentist determines that your wisdom teeth do fit comfortably into your jaw and perform a significant role in chewing, then minor cracks or breaks can be repaired with a filling material. In cases where the break will require a crown to be repaired, it is very possible that your dentist will simply recommend that the tooth be extracted.

Care for wisdom teeth

It’s important to note that patients who do keep all their wisdom teeth need to take extra care to brush and floss properly all the way to the back of their jaw. The deep location of third molars leaves them susceptible to plaque, bacteria, and decay.

Risks of leaving a broken wisdom tooth untreated

Don’t leave a broken wisdom tooth untreated. Even if you are not experiencing pain from the broken tooth, a crack can allow bacteria to enter the tooth and cause an infection. An infection can spread to your gums and jaw.