A “hole” in a wisdom tooth typically refers to a dental cavity, a damaged area on the tooth surface that can develop into small openings. Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of molars to emerge, usually in the late teens or early twenties. Cavities in wisdom teeth are a common concern.
Common Causes of Holes
The formation of a hole in a tooth begins with the interaction of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. When consuming sugary or starchy foods, oral bacteria, like Streptococcus mutans, metabolize these carbohydrates. They produce acids, primarily lactic acid, which damages tooth enamel.
A sticky film called plaque constantly forms on teeth, composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Plaque traps acids against the tooth surface, preventing saliva from neutralizing them effectively. Sustained acidic attacks cause demineralization, where enamel loses mineral content. This may first appear as small, white spots.
If demineralization continues, enamel weakens, leading to tiny openings and eventually a visible hole. Once decay progresses past the enamel, it reaches the softer dentin layer, where it advances more rapidly.
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Especially Vulnerable
Wisdom teeth are particularly susceptible to cavities due to their position and eruption patterns. Their location at the very back of the mouth makes them challenging to reach and clean effectively. This difficulty allows plaque and food particles to accumulate, increasing the risk of decay.
Partial eruption, or impaction, is common when a tooth doesn’t fully emerge through the gum line. This creates a gum flap that traps food debris and bacteria. These trapped areas are difficult to clean and provide an ideal environment for cavity-causing bacteria. Wisdom teeth can also emerge at awkward angles or contribute to crowding, further complicating cleaning and creating more areas for plaque to lodge. These factors make wisdom teeth more prone to decay.
What to Do About a Hole
Discovering a hole in a wisdom tooth often comes with noticeable symptoms, though in early stages, there might be none. Common indicators include pain, especially when biting down or consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Sensitivity to temperature changes or sweets is a frequent complaint, and sometimes a visible pit or dark spot can be seen on the tooth. Swelling around the tooth or a persistent bad taste in the mouth might also signal a problem.
If any of these signs appear, or if a hole is suspected, consult a dentist promptly. A professional assessment is necessary to accurately diagnose the extent of the decay and determine the appropriate course of action. The dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the tooth and may take X-rays to assess the decay’s depth and whether it affects the tooth’s internal structures. Early detection and intervention can prevent the cavity from progressing and potentially save the tooth from more complex issues.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for a hole in a wisdom tooth depends on the cavity’s size and severity. For smaller cavities that have not reached the tooth’s inner pulp, a dental filling is a common solution, where the decayed part is removed and replaced with a restorative material. If the decay has advanced significantly and infected the pulp, a root canal procedure might be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth. In cases of extensive damage, severe infection, or if the wisdom tooth is impacted and causing recurrent problems, extraction of the tooth may be recommended.
Preventing future holes in wisdom teeth, and all teeth, involves consistent oral hygiene practices. Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day helps remove plaque and food debris before they can cause significant damage. Limiting the consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks reduces the fuel source for decay-causing bacteria. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important, as they allow dentists to identify and address early signs of decay and remove hardened plaque (tartar) that cannot be removed by brushing alone.