Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Considered a Dental Emergency?

It’s estimated that 10 million wisdom teeth are removed each year in the US. With this high number of extractions, it begs the question – is wisdom tooth removal considered a dental emergency? Generally speaking, wisdom tooth extraction is not always an emergency but it can be an emergency sometimes. 

Signs You Need An Emergency Wisdom Tooth Extraction 

There are several signs that indicate you may need an emergency wisdom tooth extraction. Let’s take a look at some of these signs in detail: 

1. Impacted Wisdom Teeth - If your wisdom teeth have become impacted (meaning they have not erupted from the gums properly), they could be pushing against your other teeth and causing them to move out of place. This can lead to severe pain and discomfort and often requires immediate attention from your dentist or oral surgeon. 

2. Overcrowding or Crowding Teeth – When there isn't enough room in your mouth for all of your teeth, overcrowding can result. This can cause extra pressure on certain teeth, resulting in crooked or misaligned teeth. In such cases, an emergency tooth extraction may be recommended by the dentist to create more space and balance.  

3. Root-Canal Failure - In rare cases, a root canal on a wisdom tooth may fail due to complications with the infected tooth or surrounding tissue. If this is the case, extraction is often recommended as the best course of action for minimizing infection and restoring dental health. 

4. Damaged Wisdom Tooth by Cavities or Trauma – A damaged wisdom tooth can cause significant pain or sensitivity around the affected area which may require emergency treatment in order to minimize discomfort and restore dental health quickly. 

5. Severe Pain or Sensitivity Around Your Wisdom Teeth – If you experience severe pain or sensitivity around your wisdom teeth, this could mean that they are infected and require prompt treatment from a dentist or oral surgeon to prevent further damage and infection from occurring. 

6. Your Wisdom Teeth Appear Swollen or Inflamed – If you notice any swelling or inflammation around your wisdom teeth, it could indicate an issue that needs immediate attention from a dentist who can perform an emergency tooth extraction if needed. 

Types Of Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedures 

Wisdom tooth extractions are divided into two categories: basic and surgical extractions. 

• A basic extraction involves removing the visible portion of the affected tooth using forceps and other specialized instruments. 
• A surgical extraction is more involved as it requires cutting through the gum tissue and jawbone to access the impacted tooth before it can be removed. 

Depending on your individual case, either procedure may be recommended by your dentist. 

Contact Scarsdale Smiles Today!

If you're experiencing any of these signs and live in Scarsdale, contact Scarsdale Smiles. Our team has extensive experience in performing safe and effective extractions. Don't wait until it's too late - get the help you need today!