When it comes to wisdom tooth removal most people are familiar with the standard extraction procedure. But what if there’s a way to avoid complications like nerve damage while still addressing problematic teeth? Enter coronectomy; lesser-known but highly effective alternative. Coronectomy reduces the risk of nerve injury and offers a safer option for patients by removing only the crown of a wisdom tooth and leaving the roots intact,. But is it the right choice for you? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the what, why, and how of coronectomy, exploring its benefits, risks, recovery process and more. Whether you’re facing wisdom tooth issues or just curious about this innovative approach, read on to learn everything you need to know about this evolving dental technique.
What is Coronectomy?
Coronectomy is a dental procedure where only the crown of a wisdom tooth is removed and leaving the roots intact. It is done to avoid nerve damage. Especially when the tooth is close to the inferior alveolar nerve.
Statistics and Numbers About Coronectomy
IAN Injury Risk Reduction Of Coronectomy
- Traditional extraction of lower third molars carries a risk of IAN injury. Coronectomy has been shown to significantly reduce this risk with postoperative IAN deficits happen in about 0.65% of cases compared to 5.10% following conventional extraction procedures.
Root Migration Of Coronectomy
- After coronectomy residual roots tend to migrate. Studies have reported a migration distance of 2.83 mm over about 17.3 months. This migration is generally uneventful and doesn’t necessitate further intervention.
Surgical Site Infections (SSI) Of Coronectomy
- Meta analysis encompassing 22 studies and 2,173 coronectomy procedures found an overall pooled prevalence of SSI at 2.4%. This indicates that while infections could be seen they are relatively uncommon.
Procedure Failure and Reoperation Rates Of Coronectomy
- Coronectomy may not be successful in some cases and cause to the need for additional procedures. Studies have reported that up to 4.9% of cases require reoperation because of factors such as persistent pain, root exposure or infection.
Success Rates Of Coronectomy
- A systematic review encompassing 2,039 coronectomy procedures reported a failure rate of about 3.04%. This rates give us success rate of about 96.96%. joms.org
Reoperation Rates Of Coronectomy
- Studies have indicated that up to 4.9% of coronectomy cases may require reoperation. en.wikipedia.org
Average Costs Of Coronectomy
- Cost of a coronectomy can change according to location and specific dental practices in the USA. On average; patients may pay around $415 for the procedure and prices change from $160 in less expensive areas to $674 in more costly regions. drbestprice.com
- Cost for a coronectomy starts at about $116 for an erupted tooth and $187 or more for a tooth that has not erupted in Canada. hellodent.com
- Price of a coronectomy starts from £200 and total cost change according to patient’s case in United Kingdom.
Who Needs A Coronectomy?
1. Patients with a High Risk of Nerve Damage
- The inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) runs close to the roots of lower wisdom teeth.
- Full extraction can lead to temporary or permanent numbness in the lip, chin or tongue if the nerve is damaged.
- Coronectomy is recommended when X-rays or CBCT scans (Cone Beam CT scans) show that the tooth roots are very close to or touching the IAN.
2. Patients with Deeply Impacted or Partially Erupted Wisdom Teeth
- If a wisdom tooth is partially erupted or deeply embedded removing the roots may require extensive bone removal and increasing surgical risks.
- Coronectomy avoids unnecessary trauma while still addressing the problematic area.
3. Young Adults (Usually Under 30)
- Younger patients often have wisdom teeth with undeveloped or partially formed roots and making them more suitable for a coronectomy.
- Nerve healing potential is better in younger patients and its reducing long-term complications if any issues arise.
4. Patients with Certain Medical Conditions
- People with bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia) or conditions affecting bone healing (e.g., osteoporosis, diabetes) may be at higher risk of complications from full extractions.
- Coronectomy may reduce the risk of excessive bleeding, dry socket or delayed healing in these patients.
5. Patients Who Have Been Advised Against Full Extraction
- Some people have wisdom teeth that do not cause pain or infection but their dentist notices a high risk of nerve injury during extraction.
- Coronectomy may be the best option to prevent complications if there is no active infection or mobility in the tooth roots.
Who Should NOT Get a Coronectomy?
A coronectomy is not suitable for everyone. It is generally not recommended in below situations;
❌ Teeth with active infections: Infected roots left behind may lead to abscesses.
❌ Teeth with mobile or damaged roots: If the remaining roots are loose, they may migrate unpredictably and cause future issues.
❌ People with immune system problems: Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, chemotherapy treatment or immune disorders may lead to poor healing.
❌ Patients with previous failed coronectomies: Full extraction may be necessary if the first coronectomy led to complications.
What Are The Risks of Coronectomy?
1. Root Migration (Up to 30%)
- The remaining tooth roots may move or shift over time after the crown is removed.
- Studies suggest root migration occurs in up to 30% of cases but in most situations it stops after 6 months and doesn’t lead any problems.
- If the roots migrate too much or break through the gum, a second surgery may be needed.
2. Infection & Dry Socket (2%–4%)
- Infections such as alveolar osteitis (dry socket) or abscess formation could be seen after surgery.
- Antibiotics and proper oral hygiene reduce this risk.
- Studies report a 2%–4% infection rate after coronectomy like to traditional extractions.
3. Need for Future Surgery (Up to 5%)
- Around 4%–5% of patients may eventually require full extraction.
- The remaining roots become painful or infected.
- The roots erupt through the gum, causing discomfort.
- The tooth root develops cysts or decay.
4. Nerve Damage (Less than 1%)
- While coronectomy is designed to reduce the risk of nerve injury, there is still a small chance (0.6%–1%) of temporary or permanent damage to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN).
- Nerve damage can lead to numbness, tingling or burning sensations in the lips, chin or tongue.
- This risk is significantly lower than with full extractions where nerve damage rates could be as high as 5%–10%.
5. Fracture of the Jaw (Rare but possible)
- Jawbone (mandible) may become weakened after surgery and increasing the risk of fracture in some cases.
- This is more common in older patients with weaker bones or those with deeply impacted teeth.
Day By Day Recovery Guide Of Coronectomy
🗓️ Day 1: Surgery Day
What to Expect:
✅ Bleeding for a few hours after surgery.
✅ Swelling and discomfort start developing.
✅ Mild difficulty opening your mouth.
What to Do:
✔️ Bite on gauze for 30–60 minutes to control bleeding. Change it if needed.
✔️ Apply an ice pack (10–15 min on, 10 min off) to reduce swelling.
✔️ Take prescribed pain medication before anesthesia wears off.
✔️ Rest and avoid strenuous activities.
✔️ Drink plenty of water but avoid using straws.
🚫 DO NOT:
❌ Spit, rinse or brush your teeth (first 24 hours).
❌ Eat hard, crunchy or hot foods. Stick to soft, cool foods (e.g., yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes).
❌ Smoke or drink alcohol (delays healing).
🗓️ Day 2–3: Peak Swelling & Healing Begins
What to Expect:
✅ Swelling peaks around day 2–3 before improving.
✅ Mild to moderate pain manageable with medication.
✅ Possible minor bruising around the jaw.
What to Do:
✔️ Continue ice packs for swelling (first 48 hours only).
✔️ Start warm salt water rinses (gently, after 24 hours) 2–3 times a day.
✔️ Maintain a soft diet (soups, scrambled eggs, mashed bananas).
✔️ Brush teeth carefully avoiding the surgical area.
🚫 DO NOT:
❌ Poke the wound with fingers or your tongue.
❌ Do strenuous exercise (risk of increased bleeding).
🗓️ Day 4–5: Swelling Reduces, Soft Diet Continues
What to Expect:
✅ Swelling starts going down.
✅ Discomfort improves but mild soreness persists.
✅ Stiffness in jaw reduces gradually.
What to Do:
✔️ Switch to warm compresses (moist heat) to ease jaw stiffness.
✔️ Eat more solid foods if comfortable (pasta, soft rice, boiled vegetables).
✔️ Keep rinsing with salt water after meals.
🚨 Warning Signs to Watch For:
❌ Increasing pain after improving (may indicate dry socket).
❌ Persistent bad taste or pus (sign of infection).
❌ Prolonged numbness in the lip, chin or tongue (possible nerve injury).
🗓️ Day 6–7: Major Healing Progress
What to Expect:
✅ Swelling mostly gone.
✅ Pain significantly reduced, may not need medication.
✅ Mild discomfort if opening your mouth wide.
What to Do:
✔️ Return to normal eating, but avoid extremely hard or sticky foods.
✔️ Maintain oral hygiene (gentle brushing & rinsing).
✔️ Resume light exercise but avoid heavy lifting.
🗓️ Week 2 & Beyond: Full Recovery Approaching
What to Expect:
✅ Surgical site closes over with gum tissue.
✅ Most patients feel normal by 10–14 days.
✅ Jaw movement should feel normal again.
What to Do:
✔️ Regular brushing & flossing, being gentle near the healing site.
✔️ Eat normally but still be mindful of extremely hard foods.
✔️ Follow up with your dentist/oral surgeon if necessary.
🚨 Call Your Dentist If:
❌ Pain worsens instead of improving.
❌ You notice swelling or pus after initial healing.
❌ You experience prolonged numbness.
Final Tips for a Smooth Recovery
✅ Drink plenty of fluids.
✅ Stick to soft foods for the first 5–7 days.
✅ Avoid sucking, spitting and smoking for at least a week.
✅ Listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, consult your dentist!
Most patients fully recover within 2 weeks but complete bone healing can take several months. 🚀 Following these aftercare tips will help you heal faster with minimal risks! 😊
We wish healthy and happy life to you. Also you can find details about dental implants in below:
