Can Cavities in Wisdom Teeth Be Filled?

When a cavity forms in a tooth, it's not the end of the world (or the end of the tooth, provided the cavity is caught early enough). You have the cavity filled, and then it's back to eating and drinking as usual—perhaps making a mental note to step up your oral hygiene practices so that you won't be bothered by cavities again anytime soon. But this general process doesn't apply to all teeth. What happens when your third molar (or a wisdom tooth, to use the common term) develops a cavity?

Your Wisdom Teeth

While wisdom teeth are unnecessary as far as the configuration of your mouth is concerned, these extra molars are harmless for many people. However, wisdom teeth extraction can be necessary when the placement of these third molars creates issues with your oral health. This can be related to overcrowding in your dental arch (not enough physical space for the wisdom teeth), or when the teeth are impacted (did not fully erupt from the gums). Impacted wisdom teeth are vulnerable to infections in the gingival tissue surrounding the tooth, which can be extremely uncomfortable. But when the issue is a mere cavity, should you just have it filled?

Filling a Cavity in a Wisdom Tooth

Although a cavity in a wisdom tooth can be filled, this is not always quite so uncomplicated. The position of the tooth can create some logistical issues, meaning it's not so easy for a dentist to access the deteriorated portions of the tooth before filling the cavity. This is a particular problem with impacted wisdom teeth that have only partially erupted from your gums. One of the first steps your dentist is likely to take is to assess the functionality of the wisdom teeth.

No Real Purpose

When filling the cavity is difficult due to the impaction of your wisdom teeth, and the teeth don't serve any real purpose, it's often preferred to extract them. The alignment of your wisdom teeth can mean that they don't assist in chewing in any useful way, and they've been left in place because they haven't caused any problems—until now. Wisdom teeth extraction will often be the best course of action, and you won't be disadvantaged in any way by their absence. 

Your dentist will explore the possible ways to fill a cavity in a wisdom tooth, but in many cases, it's better to consider wisdom teeth removal services. Ask them which option is best. 

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