Wisdom teeth removal is the last resort to eliminate the discomfort and constant pain. It is a common dental procedure, but healing can be challenging sometimes due to unexpected complications. One such condition is bone sequestra, a condition in which small fragments of bone remain behind, hindering the healing process. 

If you or a loved one has recently undergone wisdom tooth removal and is experiencing trouble healing, it may be due to the presence of bone sequestra. It’s crucial to understand this phenomenon to recover quickly. 

What Is Bone Sequestra?

Bone sequestra or sequestrum in singular form are tiny pieces of bone that separate from the tooth during or following a tooth extraction. These fragments can occur when the blood supply to a small area of the bone is disrupted during the procedure, especially if the extraction was surgical or complex.

As the surrounding tissue heals, the body attempts to eliminate foreign materials, such as bone fragments. So, these pieces push against the surface, causing immense pain, injury to the tongue, and other complications. 

Why Does Bone Sequestra Occur After a Tooth Extraction?

During a bone tooth extraction, the trauma to the surrounding tissue can lead to reduced blood supply in small areas of the jawbone. As the portion doesn’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients, the bone parts die and separate from the healthy bone, resulting in a sequestrum. 

Some common risk factors include:

• Surgical extraction of impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth
• Poor oral hygiene after the procedure
• Bone conditions
• Smoking or delayed healing
• Infection or poor blood clot formation

Common Bone Sequestra Symptoms to Watch For

Identifying a bone sequestra is quite easy. You can feel something hard protruding or pressing against the soft tissue. It may or may not cause pain, but it can pique your interest in learning more about it. In many cases, it’s the dentist who alerts patients. However, you can look out for the following symptoms if you suspect having a sequestration. 

• A hard, white, or yellow piece protruding from the extraction site
• Pain or irritation in the gum area
• Swelling or mild inflammation around the socket
• Delayed or slow healing
• Mild bleeding when brushing or rinsing
• A gritty or sharp feeling on the tongue near the socket

If you are experiencing these symptoms, visit Peace of Mind Dental Studio today. 

Bone Sequestra After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Bone sequestra wisdom tooth cases are quite common. Did you know that over 5 million people in the USA have their wisdom teeth removed every year, which translates to approximately 20 million teeth being extracted annually. 

As wisdom teeth are located deeper in the jaw, the extraction often requires removing bone tissue, increasing the likelihood of a sequestration forming. 

Can Bone Sequestra Delay Healing?

Yes, bone sequestra can delay the healing process. It is a piece of dead bone in your gum, which can result in the following:

    Preventing the complete closure of the gum tissue

    Increasing inflammation

    Causing discomfort during eating or brushing

    Leading to minor infections if not cleaned properlyOften, the body eventually expels the fragment, and healing isn’t hindered. However, you must consult a dentist so they can monitor the area and remove it, if needed. 

Treatment and Removal of Bone Sequestra

If the bone fragment is invasive and causes discomfort, your dentist may recommend extraction. It is a simple procedure that involves the following:

• Loose tissue or debris is removed.
• The sequestrum is removed using dental tools.
• If the bone is lodged deeper, it requires administering anesthesia and making a small cut to remove the fragment.
• Antibiotics are prescribed, and patients often require pain relief medications for post-surgical comfort.

Preventing Bone Sequestra After Tooth Extraction

It is not possible to prevent bone sequestra from forming, but post-operative care can help reduce the risk. 

Here are the tips that will help:

• Keep the area clean with gentle saltwater rinses
• Avoid smoking or using straws during healing
• Stick to soft foods and avoid biting near the site
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Don’t poke or disturb the area with your tongue or fingers

When to Seek Professional Help?

If you have had a tooth extraction and the pain hasn’t subsided despite taking your medication on time, it is advisable to consult us at Peace of Mind Dental Studio. If you witness symptoms of bone sequestra, do not attempt to remove them on your own. For a smooth recovery and to avoid infection, it is recommended that you consult a professional. 

Conclusion

A bone sequestrum isn’t an alarming problem, but like any other dental issue, it requires prompt action. Understanding these symptoms and post-operative issues will help. 

For more information on bone sequestra, tooth extraction, and the complications, book an appointment with us at Peace of Mind Dental Studio. We will be happy to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Que: How do I know if I have bone sequestra after tooth extraction?

Ans: If you feel a hard, white, or yellow piece near the extraction site, protruding abnormally, it might be a bone sequestra. 

Que: Will bone sequestra go away on its own?

Ans: Yes, in some cases, the body may push out the piece automatically, but in most cases, it requires surgical removal.

Que: How long does bone sequestra delay healing after wisdom tooth removal?

Ans: Depending on the size and location of the fragment, the healing may be delayed by a few days or even more than a week. 

Que: Can bone sequestra lead to infection?

Ans: Yes, it can lead to infections as bacteria may get trapped and cause problems. 

Que: Is bone sequestra the same as dry socket?

Ans: No, it is a piece of bone lodged in the soft tissue, while a dry socket is caused by a lack of blood at the extraction site. 

Written by Dr. Silverman