“My wisdom tooth hurts a lot. Is extraction the only option?”
I am 32 years old and my wisdom tooth has just erupted. It is growing a bit weird and is extremely painful. Should I have it extracted?
7 Answers
Your wisdom tooth stopped erupting years ago. What is happening is that your gum tissue, due to inflammation, has started wearing away. Extraction is probably the best option.
Yes, there is likely little else that would work to permanently resolve the issue and it could lead to problems with the tooth in front of it.
Yes, you must see the oral surgeon to have them removed.
You should likely be evaluated by a dentist and/or oral & maxillofacial surgeon; if you retain the tooth you will need to be willing to maintain it, monitor it, and/or intervene if problems persist or worsen...
Many third molars or wisdom teeth can partially erupt or erupt malpositioned and non-functional. Often these malposed teeth have soft tissue over the tooth with periodontal pockets forming around the tooth and "pericoronitis" can occur leading to pain and infections. You need to have your dentist or oral surgeon look at the tooth clinically and radiographically to determine if the tooth needs to be removed. If the soft tissue can be removed and normal hygiene is obtainable, then the tooth can be left in place, however in most cases removal of the malposed tooth is the best choice.
Most likely the tooth needs to be extracted. The area needs to be evaluated clinically and radiographically prior to making a final recommendation.
Yes, you should have it removed. It will continue to cause problems and the longer you wait, the harder it will be to remove.
