Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the last teeth to grow in the back of your mouth. They usually appear in the late teens or early twenties, and for many people, they bring pain and problems. In this article, we will learn more about broken wisdom teeth, the common issues they cause, and what you can do to get relief.
Table of Contents
- What are Wisdom Teeth?
- Why Do Wisdom Teeth Break?
- Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Wisdom Tooth
- Treatment Options for Broken Wisdom Teeth
- Conclusion
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last four molars to grow in the back corners of your mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They’re called wisdom teeth, but they don’t always bring wisdom. In fact, they can often cause pain and problems.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Break?
Wisdom teeth are more likely to break than other teeth because:
- They often don’t have enough room to grow properly. This can cause them to crowd other teeth or become stuck, which can lead to cracks and breaks.
- They often grow crooked. They may grow sideways, tilted, or even backwards. This can make them more likely to break, especially when you chew.
- They often only come out of the gums partly. This leaves them exposed to damage.
- They’re hard to clean because they’re in the back of your mouth. This can lead to decay and breakage.
- They often have irregular shapes. This can make them more likely to crack or chip.
- Bad oral habits and poor dental care can also cause wisdom teeth to break.
Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Wisdom Tooth
A broken wisdom tooth can be very painful and uncomfortable. If you think you may have a broken wisdom tooth, it’s important to see a dentist right away. Here are some of the signs and symptoms to look for:
Sharp Pain
This is the most common sign of a broken wisdom tooth. The pain may be constant or come and go. It may be localized to the affected area or radiate to other parts of your head, such as your ear or jaw.
Swelling
The gums around the broken wisdom tooth may swell. This swelling can make it difficult to open your mouth or chew.
Redness and Tenderness
The gums around the broken wisdom tooth may be red and tender. This is a sign of inflammation.
Unpleasant Taste and Odor
A broken wisdom tooth can trap food and bacteria, which can lead to an unpleasant taste and odor in your mouth.
Difficulty in Opening Your Mouth
The pain and swelling from a broken wisdom tooth can make it difficult to open your mouth fully.
Headaches and Earaches
The pain from a broken wisdom tooth can radiate to other parts of your head, leading to headaches and earaches.
Pain While Chewing
Chewing with a broken wisdom tooth can be painful.
Visible Damage
In some cases, you may be able to see that your wisdom tooth is broken. It may be chipped, cracked, or even fractured.
Abscess Formation
An untreated broken wisdom tooth can lead to the formation of an abscess, which is a painful pocket of pus.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist right away. A dentist can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
Treatment Options for Broken Wisdom Teeth
If you have a broken wisdom tooth, there are several treatments that can help. The best treatment for you will depend on how bad the break is and how much pain you’re in. Here is the overview of the most common treatment options:
Pain Management and Antibiotics
If the break is small and not infected, your dentist may recommend pain medication and antibiotics. Pain medication can help reduce discomfort, and antibiotics can help prevent or treat infection.
Dental Fillings
If the break is small and doesn’t damage the tooth too much, your dentist may recommend a filling. This involves removing the damaged part of the tooth and filling it with a material that matches the color of your teeth.
Crowns
If the break is bigger or damages the tooth’s structure, your dentist may recommend a crown. A crown is a cap that fits over your tooth and protects it.
Extraction
If the tooth is too damaged to be repaired, your dentist may recommend extracting it. This means removing the tooth from your mouth.
Surgical Extraction
If your wisdom tooth is impacted (stuck in your jaw) or hasn’t fully erupted from the gum, your dentist may need to perform a surgical extraction. This involves making a small cut in the gum to remove the tooth.
Root Canal Treatment
If the break in the tooth extends into the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), your dentist may need to perform a root canal. This involves removing the damaged pulp and sealing the tooth to prevent infection.
Post-Treatment Care
After any of these treatments, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully. This may include taking pain medication, eating soft foods, and keeping your mouth clean
Conclusion
A broken wisdom tooth can be a painful and inconvenient experience. However, there are several treatment options available to help you get relief. If you think you may have a broken wisdom tooth, it’s important to see a dentist right away. Reach out to Eastman Dental Group to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment for you.