Can you fill a wisdom teeth?

Answer 1

It is not impossible if the tooth has erupted into the mouth, but it is important to determine if filling a wisdom tooth is the best course of action. Often, removing a wisdom tooth is preferable to filling because the tooth may not be in a functional relationship (ie., it does not bite against another tooth). Also, wisdom teeth are often very difficult to keep clean, and the likelihood of decay re-occurring is quite high.

It is generally a matter of weighing the benefits against the risks associated with the proposed treatment. As wisdom teeth are generally not critical to maintain a healthy mouth, removal is usually the preferred treatment. A competent oral surgeon or dentist should be consulted before making the decision of how to treat a wisdom tooth.

Answer 2

You can and should keep your wisdom teeth if they are not problematic. Any surgery carries risk, and the American Public Health Association recommends that asymptomatic wisdom teeth be left in, even if partially or fully impacted (i.e. if partially or fully covered by the gum). However, people very frequently have them removed to preempt problems that can occur. Wisdom teeth, also called the third molars, are generally nonessential in modern life. They can crowd out other teeth and can be difficult to clean, resulting in infections and cavities in those and nearby teeth. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons recommends that patients who have familial history of issues with the third molar should have them removed as those with familial history are more likely to develop problems. When in doubt, consult your dentist: x-rays can tell you whether you are likely to need to have them removed or if you can leave them alone.