Is it better to extract or place a crown on a chipped wisdom tooth (number 16)?

Question

My wisdom tooth (number 16) is cracked and some of the cusp is gone. I had a cavity on it that was filled many years ago. The filling and cusp fell off. It does not hurt, there is no infection, and I do not need a root canal. My dentist recommended having the tooth extracted because according to her it is not ideal to place a crown on a wisdom tooth and won't be able to get a good filling. I don't want to ruin the alignment of my teeth since I've had braces and my insurance won't cover them.

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

IIf you have a good ooeth in a good position I would crown it rather than extract it.Crowns are more difficult than more forward but can last a lifetime.

Joseph B. Silberman, DMD, FAGD · Answer

There are a number of different factors that go into the decision of crowning vs. extracting your wisdom tooth. The pertinent clinical findings that only your dentist can determine gives her the unique ability to make this call. I can, however, tell you that removing your wisdom tooth will not ruin the alignment of your teeth. I would trust your dentist’s opinion.

Is it better to extract or place a crown on a chipped wisdom tooth (number 16)?

Answers (2)