What Is an Impacted Tooth? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
An impacted tooth is a common dental condition in which a tooth fails to fully erupt into the mouth, remaining partially or completely trapped in the jawbone or gums. This often occurs with wisdom teeth (third molars) or canine teeth, and can lead to pain, discomfort, and various oral health issues. So how can you recognize an impacted tooth, and when does it require treatment? Here are all the essential details:
What Is an Impacted Tooth?
Teeth typically develop within the jawbone and gradually erupt into the correct position in the mouth. However, in some cases, a tooth may be unable to emerge properly due to space limitations or misalignment. This condition is called an impacted tooth. The tooth remains stuck in the gum tissue or jawbone and does not emerge as expected. It is most commonly seen with wisdom teeth but can also affect other teeth, such as the upper canines.
What Are the Symptoms of an Impacted Tooth?
The symptoms of an impacted tooth can vary depending on the individual and the position of the tooth. Common signs include:
-
Pain and discomfort: Throbbing pain due to pressure around the impacted tooth area.
-
Swelling and redness: Inflammation of the gum tissue around the impacted tooth.
-
Bad breath: Infections around the impacted tooth may cause halitosis.
-
Difficulty swallowing: Especially with impacted wisdom teeth.
-
Head and ear pain: Pain can radiate due to nerve involvement.
What Causes an Impacted Tooth?
Several factors may contribute to tooth impaction, including:
-
Genetic predisposition: A narrow jaw or misaligned teeth may be inherited.
-
Jaw size: A small jaw may not have enough space for new teeth to erupt.
-
Mispositioned adjacent teeth: These can block the path of eruption.
-
Developmental issues: Incomplete development of the jaw and teeth during childhood.
What Problems Can an Untreated Impacted Tooth Cause?
If left untreated, an impacted tooth can lead to various complications, such as:
1. Infection
Bacterial buildup around the impacted tooth can cause infections and dental abscesses.
2. Jaw pain and restricted movement
Pain may spread and limit the opening and movement of the jaw.
3. Damage to adjacent teeth
Pressure from the impacted tooth may lead to decay, fractures, or root damage in neighboring teeth.
4. Cysts or tumors
In some cases, a cyst may form around the impacted tooth and, if untreated, can develop into a tumor.
How Is an Impacted Tooth Treated?
Treatment depends on the tooth’s position and the severity of the symptoms. Common approaches include:
-
X-ray and diagnosis: Radiographic imaging is used to determine the exact position of the tooth.
-
Surgical removal: The impacted tooth may need to be surgically extracted under local anesthesia.
-
Antibiotics: If infection is present, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed.
How Is Impacted Tooth Extraction Performed?
Extraction of an impacted tooth is a minor surgical procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. The typical steps include:
-
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
-
Gum incision: A small incision is made to access the tooth.
-
Tooth removal: The tooth may be sectioned and removed in pieces if necessary.
-
Closure: The gum is sutured to promote healing.
Post-Operative Recovery:
-
Ice application and pain medication may be recommended.
-
Full recovery usually takes about one week.
Can Impacted Teeth Be Prevented?
While not all cases of impaction can be avoided, the following measures may reduce the risk:
-
Regular dental checkups.
-
Monitoring jaw development during childhood.
-
Seeking orthodontic treatment if overcrowding is identified.
Conclusion
Impacted teeth can cause serious dental and jaw complications if not treated promptly. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking professional care ensures better outcomes. If you suspect an impacted tooth, consult your dentist as soon as possible. For expert diagnosis and treatment, you can contact the specialists at ZE Dent.