Can the upper wisdom tooth move into the lower extracted site?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had my last molar extracted about a year ago, and never had my top wisdom teeth pulled. Is it possible for my wisdom tooth to come down into the empty space where the molar was extracted? I have a swollen jaw, swollen cheek, and slight pain when touched. Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

When a tooth is extracted, the opposing tooth tends to compensate by over erupting, since there is no stop for the tooth to rest on. This is called supra eruption. From your query and the details provided, it looks like your upper wisdom tooth is supra-erupting and is infected. The only option is to get that tooth removed. If the pain is quite disturbing, you can take mild painkillers like Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) or try warm saline mouth rinses thrice daily.

During this pandemic (COVID-19), dental offices are instructed to provide emergency care only. So minimal and non-emergency procedures are generally postponed three weeks later for now. You can call your dentist or the nearest dental office and get an appointment if the pain becomes unbearable.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.