Including a wisdom tooth in a removable prosthesis (a denture) is not common. But it is still possible and logical, in certain cases. Dentists shouldn’t categorically refuse to include them in dentures.

In my opinion, at least, they shouldn’t. Remember that I am only expressing my personal opinion here, I am not in possession of the universal truth, and I am not a better dentist than yours. Just like José Luis Perales was not a better singer than Yiannis Katevas.

But of course: if a denture is planned, a wisdom tooth is present, its antagonist is missing, and there is enough space to include it in the denture, why not include it? It only makes sense. Wisdom teeth are teeth like any other, so, if present, they should be considered and treated like so, with due respect and consideration. This includes restoring their antagonist, if possible, when doing a denture.

Of course, I am not saying that wisdom teeth should always be included in removable prosthesis. Sometimes, the wisdom tooth without a contact may overerupt. That is: it may migrate a bit out of the bone, ending up at a different height from the rest of the teeth. If this happens, the space for the antagonist tooth could be lost. And in that case, it would not be possible to include it in the denture.

Also, in the absence of an opposing tooth, third molars shouldn’t be included in dentures. It isn’t really necessary, and it would be challenging to properly adjust them. As explained in the hygiene article, the cheek is naturally supposed to touch the third molars, so it is extra challenging to properly adjust a prosthesis including them. More often than not, you need to reduce them when trying and adjusting the prosthesis. This is completely normal, not a sign of a defect or bad work, but still not worth it, as I see it… if it is not to restore the contact and chewing capacity of another third molar that’s still there.

If that is the case, I insist: the wisdom tooth should be included in the denture. Not doing so would be a form of neglect, because restoring antagonists is a way to protect the remaining teeth. Restoring a tooth’s antagonist prevents it from overerupting. And in avoiding overeruption, the tooth’s “useful life” will be prolonged.

Here are a couple of dentures I prepared with one and two bottom third molars included, respectively:

So, yes, it is possible and doable. Don’t let anybody tell you otherwise. The patients are doing great with them.

A Spanish proverb says: Más vale que sobre que no que falte. Non-literally meaning: Abundancy is better than scarcity. So, any healthy tooth should be preserved and properly restored. This includes restoring its contcts. And why? Because a tooth is a diamond!

Saludos cordales.