Impacted Teeth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Posted on May 11, 2021

As they emerge, obstructions can prevent some teeth from breaking through the gums. Most of the time, the problem affects wisdom teeth. But other teeth can also be either partially or fully impacted.

Sometimes the condition may remain undetected until you undergo an examination at the orthodontist’s office. In this article, you’ll find out more about impacted teeth, symptoms, and the treatment procedures that exist.

What Causes an Impacted Tooth?

Tooth impaction usually occurs when an obstacle is preventing the emergence of new teeth. The obstruction may be the lack of enough space or baby teeth that didn’t fall out. As such, the molars may emerge just over the gum line, or they may not be visible at all.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth and Maxillary Canines

The wisdom teeth are the most affected by impaction. They are usually the last teeth to grow, emerging between age 17 and 21. Visiting an orthodontist for checkups can halt the condition and prevent unnecessary pain for the patient.

The maxillary canines are the second most affected by impaction after the wisdom teeth. The upper canines are vulnerable because they emerge after the incisors and the premolars. Genetic factors may also be responsible for impacted maxillary canines. Since they play an important role, an orthodontist will often encourage you to rescue them, rather than extract them.

Implications of Impacted Teeth on Your Health

When teeth are impacted, they can cause severe nerve damage, swelling of the gums, and infections in your mouth. The inflammation may, in turn, cause cavities and gum disease.

An impacted tooth also leaves gaps in between the teeth since it emerges partially or not at all. They also affect the roots, weakening the surrounding teeth and causing abnormal growth. You will need to see an orthodontist for treatment to prevent further complications.

Symptoms of Impacted Tooth

Bad breath is another symptom of impacted teeth, often the result of gum inflammation. Patients often experience pain around the jaws, as well as swollen gums and lymph nodes.

Orthodontist Treatment Procedures

Orthodontists can treat impacted teeth with braces, depending on their condition. Your child’s dental professional may propose removal of the baby teeth causing obstructions. Treatment sometimes includes the placement of expanders and space maintainers. Those devices can ensure there is adequate space for the canines and wisdom teeth to emerge.

If you have mild to moderate pain, you can use over-the-counter medication to ease the discomfort. A cold pack held against your jaw can prevent inflammation. But ultimately, you’ll want to see an orthodontist for an examination.

If the tooth gets to the point where it causes pain, it may indicate that the patient has to undergo a procedure. Depending on the location, a surgical procedure may be recommended to expose the tooth.

Not all cases of an impacted tooth are risky for your oral health. Sometimes it may not cause any danger, so there is no need to treat it or remove it. However, it is advisable to find the best orthodontist to determine if you require such treatment. For more information on impacted teeth and the best orthodontic services in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, call or text Jacaranda Smiles and we will help you book an appointment.