What Should You Do If Your Wisdom Tooth Has a Cavity?

Wisdom teeth, the late arrivals to the dental party, sometimes bring along unwelcome surprises—cavities. Finding a cavity in a wisdom tooth might seem daunting, but fret not! This comprehensive guide will navigate you through understanding, managing, and seeking relief for this common dental woe.

Understanding Wisdom Tooth Cavities

Wisdom teeth, those back-of-the-mouth latecomers, can sometimes bring unwelcome guests—cavities. These molars, often arriving between ages 17 and 25, are prone to cavities due to their position and late arrival. Cavities are tiny holes or openings that form on the surface of teeth due to decay. When the protective layer of enamel wears away, it exposes the inner parts of the tooth to bacteria and acids, leading to decay.

Because wisdom teeth are the last to arrive, they often face challenges. Sometimes, they emerge partially or at odd angles, making them difficult to clean thoroughly. This trapped food and bacteria can accelerate cavity formation. When sugars and starches from food mix with the bacteria in your mouth, they form acids that attack the tooth’s enamel. Over time, this continual assault weakens the enamel, creating an opening for cavities to develop.

Signs & Symptoms

Persistent Toothache: A persistent, throbbing toothache near the back of your mouth, where your wisdom teeth are located, might indicate a cavity. This discomfort can vary in intensity and may worsen while chewing or biting down.

Increased Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages could signal a cavity in a wisdom tooth. You might experience a sharp, fleeting pain when consuming these items.

Visible Pits or Holes: Take a peek into your mouth using a mirror. If you notice visible holes, pits, or dark spots on the surface of your wisdom tooth, it could indicate decay and the presence of a cavity.

Gum Sensitivity or Swelling: Cavities in wisdom teeth can cause gum sensitivity or swelling around the affected tooth. Your gums might appear red, inflamed, or tender to the touch.

Bad Taste or Breath: Sometimes, a foul taste or persistent bad breath can accompany a cavity in a wisdom tooth. The decaying matter can lead to an unpleasant taste or odor in your mouth.

Jaw Stiffness or Pain: In advanced cases, a cavity in a wisdom tooth might lead to jaw stiffness or pain. As a result, it affects your ability to open or close your mouth comfortably.

What to Do Next?

Schedule a Dental Appointment: As soon as you suspect a cavity in your wisdom tooth, don’t delay—schedule an appointment with your dentist. Early intervention is key to preventing the cavity from worsening and causing more extensive damage.

Describe Your Symptoms: During your dental visit, describe your symptoms in detail to your dentist. Mention any persistent toothaches, increased sensitivity, visible holes or dark spots, or discomfort while eating. This information helps the dentist assess the situation accurately.

Undergo a Dental Examination: Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your affected wisdom tooth. This examination might involve visual inspection, X-rays, or other diagnostic tests to evaluate the extent of the cavity and its impact on surrounding teeth and tissues.

Discuss Treatment Options: Based on the examination findings, your dentist will discuss suitable treatment options. These could include dental fillings, root canal therapy, or, in severe cases, extraction of the affected wisdom tooth. The dentist will explain each option, its procedure, and expected outcomes to help you make an informed decision.

Follow Your Dentist’s Recommendations: After discussing treatment options, follow your dentist’s recommendations diligently. This may involve scheduling follow-up appointments, adhering to prescribed medications, or making necessary lifestyle changes to support oral health.

Managing Wisdom Tooth Cavities

Dental Fillings: If the cavity in your wisdom tooth is detected early, your dentist may recommend a dental filling. During this procedure, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the cavity is filled with a suitable material, such as composite resin or amalgam, to restore the tooth’s structure and function.

Root Canal Therapy: In cases where the cavity has progressed deeper into the tooth, affecting the pulp (inner tissue), root canal therapy might be necessary. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the area, and sealing it. As a result, it helps to prevent further infection. It’s often a way to salvage the tooth and avoid extraction.

Tooth Extraction: In more severe cases where the cavity has extensively damaged the wisdom tooth and jeopardized surrounding teeth or oral health, extraction may be the recommended course of action. Removing the affected tooth can prevent the spread of infection and alleviate pain.

Home Remedies & Relief

Saltwater Rinse: Gargling with warm salt water can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation around the affected wisdom tooth. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Repeat this a few times a day.

Clove Oil Application: Clove oil contains natural analgesic properties that can temporarily numb the affected area and provide relief from tooth pain. Apply a small amount of clove oil to a cotton ball and gently place it on the cavity or surrounding gum area for a few minutes. Please avoid direct contact with the gums for too long, as it may irritate them.

Over-the-counter pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or existing medical conditions.

Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Apply it in intervals of 15-20 minutes, allowing breaks in between to prevent skin damage from prolonged exposure.

Cavities in wisdom teeth might pose challenges, but timely action and proper dental care can effectively manage this issue. Remember, early detection and professional guidance are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Don’t let wisdom tooth cavities bring you down! Stay proactive, prioritize dental visits, and adopt good oral hygiene practices to keep your smile radiant and cavity-free.