Dealing With Bone Spicules After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Dealing With Bone Spicules After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS

Wisdom tooth removal is a standard dental procedure many people undergo at some point in their lives. 

This surgical extraction is usually performed to prevent future problems, such as infection or damage to adjacent teeth. 

While the recovery period after wisdom tooth removal can vary from person to person, one of the potential side effects that may occur is the formation of bone spicules.

In this blog post, we will discuss what bone spicules are, why they can occur after wisdom tooth removal, and how to manage them.

Table of Contents

What Are Bone Spicules?

When a tooth, particularly a wisdom tooth, is removed, a bone spicule or dental bone spur may become visible. The complex shape and structure of the jawbone, where wisdom teeth are located, make bone spurs more likely. 

If left untreated, a bone spicule can cause discomfort and further complications.

Key Takeaway

Bone spicules are small fragments of bone that can emerge in the gum tissue after the removal of wisdom teeth, potentially causing discomfort or interfering with the healing process. See your dentist for an evaluation if you experience symptoms such as sharp pain, swelling, or persistent bleeding near the extraction site. In many cases, bone spurs may resolve on their own as part of the natural healing process.

How Do Bone Spicules Form?

After wisdom tooth removal, the socket where the tooth was located begins to heal. During the healing process, new bone tissue develops in the area. Sometimes, a tiny piece of bone may detach from the original socket and remain in the gum tissue.

This detached piece of bone is known as a bone spicule and can cause discomfort or pain as it rubs against the soft tissue in the mouth. The bone spicule may also interfere with the healing process and prolong recovery.

How Do I Know if I Have a Bone Spicule?

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but some of the common signs include: 

  • Sharp pain in the area where the tooth was extracted
  • Swelling and inflammation around the socket
  • Feeling a hard or sharp edge near the extraction site
  • Persistent bleeding near the socket.
  • Difficulty or pain when eating due to discomfort

If you experience any of these symptoms after wisdom tooth removal, don’t ignore them. Contact your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How Are Bone Spicules Treated?

Sometimes, when a bone fragment is small and not causing significant discomfort, your dentist may suggest leaving it alone. It may eventually dissolve and cause no further problems.

During the healing process, small bone fragments may be expelled from the body through the gums, which can take a few weeks to a month.

If the bone chip is causing pain or other complications, your dentist may recommend removing it. This procedure can usually be done in the dental office under local anesthesia. The dentist will use a small instrument to gently lift and remove the bone fragment from the gum tissue.

Can You Treat an Oral Bone Spicule Yourself?

Do not attempt to remove the bone piece yourself. Doing so can result in additional harm to the surrounding tissue and increase the risk of infection. It is best to seek professional dental treatment for proper diagnosis and management.

Pain Management and Tips for Faster Healing

Here are some tips to help manage the pain and promote faster healing after wisdom tooth removal:

  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
  • Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times daily to keep the area clean and promote healing.
  • Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods that irritate the extraction site and cause further discomfort.
  • Stick to a soft, bland diet for a few days after surgery to minimize irritation in the area.
  • Follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Visit Young Dental SF Group for Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Francisco, CA

Bone spicules are a common side effect of wisdom tooth removal and can cause discomfort or delay the healing process if not treated properly. Follow post-operative instructions to promote faster healing and minimize discomfort.

At Young Dental SF Group, we focus on providing specialized wisdom tooth removal services that put our patients first. Our experienced dentists use the latest techniques and technology to ensure the procedure is as seamless and comfortable as possible. We are committed to guiding you through a smooth process from the initial consultation to a full recovery.

If you are searching for ‘wisdom teeth removal in San Francisco, CA’ or ‘wisdom tooth removal near me,’ the experts at Young Dental SF Group can help. Call (415) 392-8611 or complete the online booking form.

Bone Spicule FAQ

How long do bone spicules last?

The duration of a bone spicule can vary from person to person. In some cases, it may dissolve on its own within a few weeks, while in others, it may require dental intervention for removal.

Will bone spicules fall out on their own?

Not necessarily. In some cases, small bone fragments may be expelled from the gum tissue during the healing process, but larger or more embedded spicules may require removal by a dentist.

What do bone spicules feel like?

Bone spurs can feel like a sharp or hard edge near the extraction site. They may also cause discomfort or pain when touched or rubbed against soft tissue in the mouth. If you suspect you have a bone spicule, contact your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Can I pull a bone spur out of my mouth?

No, it is not recommended to attempt removing a bone spur yourself. You could cause further harm to the surrounding tissue and increase the risk of infection. Always seek professional dental treatment for any oral health concerns.