The need to remove wisdom teeth usually arises because there simply isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to erupt fully. When this happens, the wisdom teeth often remain impacted, becoming trapped in the jaw and sitting very close to important nerves and arteries.
This close relationship — especially between the lower wisdom tooth roots and the inferior alveolar nerve — can complicate the extraction. If the nerve is wrapped around the tooth roots, removing the entire tooth carries a risk of nerve damage, which may result in partial or complete loss of sensation in the lower lip.
What Is a Coronectomy?
To reduce the risk of nerve injury, a conservative surgical option called a coronectomy can be performed. Instead of removing the entire wisdom tooth, only the crown (top portion) is taken out, while the roots remain safely in the jaw.
Although it may sound like an incomplete treatment, research has shown that coronectomy can significantly lower the risk of postoperative complications in cases where the nerve is involved. Studies comparing full extraction to coronectomy under difficult conditions found that patients who underwent coronectomy experienced fewer complications and better protection of nerve function.
Wisdom Tooth Care in Glen Iris
If you are experiencing discomfort or have been advised to remove your wisdom teeth, it’s essential to discuss all available options — especially if your roots are close to the nerves.
Please don’t hesitate to contact Dr Kaufman,👉Call or book online Tooronga Family Dentistry on (03) 9822 7006 to make an appointment and learn more about the safest approach for your wisdom teeth. 📍 We proudly care for the smiles of the Glen Iris, Tooronga, Malvern and Hawthorn East communities.