Do you have a missing wisdom tooth? Do normal activities like chewing or speaking get affected? And if it does, then can a dental implant replace a wisdom tooth?

The answer is usually no. Wisdom teeth are known to play no role in chewing or eating or speaking. Hence, a replacement is not needed. But understanding the why will help you make an informed decision.

In this blog, we’ll answer all your questions. So that deciding on wisdom tooth replacement with a dental implant is easy and less intimidating.

What is a wisdom tooth?

Wisdom tooth is the last set of teeth that erupts in the oral cavity. Usually between the ages of 17-25 years. There are four wisdom teeth. Two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw.

Since they erupt at a later stage in life, there is not enough space to accommodate them. This causes certain issues:

• Impaction - When the tooth is trapped in the jawbone or gum.
• Partially erupted - When it doesn’t come out completely.
• Angled - When it comes out at an angle and pushes against the neighbouring teeth or cheek.

These issues will result in pain, infection, swelling or damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom tooth removal is the most common dental procedure in every age group for this reason.

What is a dental implant?

Dental implants are artificial roots that are surgically placed in the bone. It is then secured with a dental crown. It permanently replaces a missing tooth. They are considered for missing teeth as they restore normal functions like:

• Eating
• Smiling
• Speaking
• Prevent bone loss in the jaw

However, implants are considered for teeth that play an important role in functions and aesthetics. The front and the back teeth do play an important role in that sense but not a wisdom tooth.

What is the role of wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are not important for normal function. Unlike your other teeth which are used for chewing, grinding food or speaking. That is why many people get their wisdom teeth removed as soon as they erupt. There is no difficulty in speaking, eating or chewing.

Hence dentists do not recommend replacing a wisdom tooth with a dental implant.

Is wisdom tooth replacement with a dental implant necessary?

For most cases, the answer is no. Here is why:

• Not visible - Since it is in the extreme corner of the oral cavity, it is not visible when you smile. So, it does not affect your appearance.
• Better oral health without them - Wisdom teeth are a lot more difficult to clean than other teeth because of their placement. Hence, removing them will improve oral health. As the risk of gum diseases and decay reduces.
• Less functional impact - As we know, wisdom teeth do not serve any purpose in function because of their placement. Their presence or absence is not a concern.
• Additionally, the bone near wisdom tooth is not ideal for implant placement.

Even though it is uncommon, in some cases, wisdom teeth play a functional role. Such as when replacing a missing second molar, a dental implant might be considered.

What happens if you don’t replace a wisdom tooth?

In case the wisdom tooth is removed, then not replacing it with a dental implant will have no negative consequences. Unlike other teeth, wisdom tooth loss does not cause any noticeable gaps in the smile.

In cases where it supports the neighbouring tooth, its removal could lead to minor changes in the bite pressure and chewing ability.

But people quickly adapt to the absence of wisdom teeth with no long term issues.

Alternatives to replacement of a wisdom tooth with a dental implant:

In most cases wisdom teeth don’t need a replacement at all. The adjacent teeth naturally adjust and with time the bone heals.

However, wisdom teeth might create issues in rare cases. It supports chewing or alignment. Alternatives like dental bridges or partial dentures can be considered.

Is it possible for a wisdom tooth to grow again?

No, wisdom teeth do not regrow after removal. Some people can have more than one wisdom tooth. In that case, it will come after the wisdom tooth is removed. Then that is called a supernumerary tooth.

Risks faced when replacing a wisdom tooth with a dental implant:

• Gum diseases - Since the wound is open when the wisdom tooth is removed. The chances of getting a gum infection increases. This can be prevented by brushing or flossing regularly.
• Limited space - Wisdom teeth erupt in the extreme corner of the jaw. Hence this causes a lack of space when placing an implant.
• Complex anatomy - The wisdom tooth area is quite close to certain important structures. This makes placing an implant riskier.
• Lower success rate - Wisdom tooth as implants are unstable because of their placement and curvature. This makes it less successful than other implants.

Frequently asked questions:

Is it necessary to replace a wisdom tooth with an implant?

Dentists do not usually recommend replacing a wisdom tooth. As they do not serve a purpose in any task or function. Its presence or absence is not a concern.

Will my teeth shift after wisdom tooth is removed?

Your teeth will not show any difference in bite and alignment when wisdom tooth is removed. They are not involved in the alignment.

Conclusion:

In case your dentist recommends that you remove your wisdom tooth, you need not worry about replacing it with a dental implant. Your oral health and bite are not merely affected by it. Instead, the focus should be on maintaining and preserving the other healthy teeth. If required, replace other teeth with a dental implant.

Each case is unique and different. So, it is always necessary to discuss your case with a dentist. Your dentist will guide you to whatever is necessary for your long-term oral health.