Can a wisdom tooth with cavities be extracted?

When wisdom teeth develop cavities, they may be preserved and treated if properly positioned, easily cleaned, and without severe complications. However, if they are malpositioned, difficult to clean, or have serious complications, removal is usually recommended. If discomfort occurs, it's advisable to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow the doctor’s instructions for appropriate management.

If wisdom teeth grow in a normal position and direction, can function normally for chewing, and only have mild decay—such as shallow or moderate caries—they can typically be restored through routine fillings. Provided that effective daily oral hygiene is maintained to prevent further progression of decay, dentists generally recommend preserving the wisdom teeth and providing targeted treatment. After treatment, enhanced oral hygiene and regular check-ups are necessary to prevent recurrence of cavities.

However, if the wisdom teeth are abnormally positioned—for example, impacted or tilted—making them difficult to clean, leading to recurrent cavities or progression to deep caries, or even causing complications such as pulpitis or periapical inflammation, or exerting pressure on adjacent teeth resulting in secondary decay or root resorption of neighboring teeth, dentists often recommend extraction.

Prior to extraction, a comprehensive evaluation is required. If the patient has acute inflammation or serious blood disorders, these conditions must first be controlled or improved until the patient meets the criteria for tooth removal. After extraction, proper postoperative care is essential to promote wound healing and prevent infection.