Generally, nothing unusual will happen if you swallow a wisdom tooth. It's quite possible you won't even realize you've swallowed it until someone mentions it. The tooth will naturally pass through your digestive system and exit your body within 24 to 48 hours, according to information found from a source on 14-Aug-2023.
What to Expect After Swallowing a Wisdom Tooth
Here's a breakdown of what typically occurs:
- Ingestion: The wisdom tooth, whether accidentally swallowed during a fall, or during an extraction, enters your stomach.
- Digestion: Your stomach acids do not dissolve the tooth as it is mostly composed of calcium phosphate, a hard substance.
- Passage: The tooth moves through your digestive system with other food waste.
- Elimination: You will pass the wisdom tooth normally during your next bowel movement within 24 to 48 hours.
Should You Be Concerned?
- No need to panic: Swallowing a tooth is typically not a cause for concern.
- No special action needed: You do not need to seek medical attention unless you experience any unusual symptoms, which are very unlikely.
- Watch out for: Extremely rare situations might require medical attention, such as the possibility of the tooth becoming lodged, which can cause discomfort. However, this is highly improbable.
Key Takeaway
As stated in the reference, your body is well equipped to handle swallowing a tooth. It will pass through your digestive system without causing any harm.