Is it necessary or even desirable to have a bone graft put in after extracting a wisdom tooth?

Hello there,Typically, a bone graft would not be advisable to compensate for an extracted wisdom tooth (third molar).  If there is an issue with the 2nd molar (which is the tooth in front of the wisdom tooth), then a bone graft may be advisable.  It never hurts to get a second opinion, if you are having doubts about what your dentist may have told you.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMDSoft Touch DentistrySt. Louis, MO

All depends on the angulation of the 3rd molar.   Sometimes the 3rd molar is so angulated that it is touching the 2nd molar.  Therefore, the bony wall that should be located between the two teeth and at the back of (distal) the 2nd molar is missing.  This bone might not regenerat on its own if bone grafting is not performed. That is why alot of times a periodontist will need to perform a secondary surgery to regenerate bone on the distal of 2nd molar to reduce a deep pocket. Bone grafting at the time of extraction will be more predictable. 

A Graft is usually not necessary but if you had bone loss on the distal of the second molar it might be advisable.  Much of this would depend on the location and angultion of the wisdom tooth.  If you plan on an implant in the future a bone graft is helpful but most people do not replace third molars with implants.