Will wisdom teeth grow back after being extracted?

Oct 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
However, in rare cases, some individuals may have supernumerary tooth germs—a special condition where additional unerupted tooth buds exist adjacent to the wisdom tooth. After removal of the wisdom tooth, these supernumerary tooth germs may gradually erupt later, which could be mistakenly perceived as "regrowth" of the wisdom tooth. Moreover, if the wisdom tooth root is not completely removed during extraction, residual root fragments may irritate the surrounding tissues, potentially causing abnormal symptoms resembling tooth "eruption."

Under normal circumstances, wisdom teeth do not regrow after extraction, as humans have only one set of permanent tooth buds for wisdom teeth. However, abnormal eruption may occur if supernumerary tooth buds are present or if tooth root fragments remain after extraction. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and follow professional guidance for proper management.

Human dental development follows the "primary teeth–permanent teeth" replacement pattern. Wisdom teeth are permanent teeth that erupt only once in a lifetime. The corresponding tooth buds mature during adolescence. Once fully erupted and subsequently extracted, the tooth bud no longer exists, making natural regrowth impossible—an established physiological principle in oral medicine.

However, in rare cases, individuals may have supernumerary tooth buds—additional unerupted buds located near the wisdom tooth site. After removal of the wisdom tooth, these extra buds may gradually emerge later, which can be mistakenly perceived as "regrowth" of the wisdom tooth. Additionally, if the entire root of the wisdom tooth is not completely removed during extraction, residual root fragments may irritate surrounding tissues and lead to abnormal manifestations resembling new tooth eruption.

For daily care following wisdom tooth extraction, follow your dentist's instructions: begin gentle oral cleaning after 24 hours, use a mild mouthwash, and avoid strenuous physical activity. Stick to lukewarm, soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the tooth was removed.

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