Impacted Teeth

At Endicott Dental, we understand that dealing with impacted teeth can be a complex and often uncomfortable experience. Impacted teeth occur when one or more teeth do not have enough space to emerge or grow properly, which can lead to a variety of dental issues, including misalignment of the surrounding teeth and significant pain. 

Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive information about impacted teeth, from identification and potential problems to treatment options, to ensure you are well-informed and prepared to make the best decisions for your dental health.

What are Impacted Teeth?

A tooth is considered impacted if it is unable to break through the gums. Either partially or completely concealed behind the gums, they can be seen. Due to their delayed emergence and potential lack of space for proper development, wisdom teeth account for the majority of impacted teeth. However, other teeth such as canines and premolars can also become impacted.

Causes of Impacted Teeth

Several factors contribute to the development of impacted teeth:

1. Genetic Predisposition: In many cases, impacted teeth are a result of inherited traits such as small jaw size or large teeth.
2. Overcrowding: When there's not enough space in the jaw for all of the teeth, some may become trapped.
3. Irregular Tooth Growth: Sometimes teeth grow in at odd angles, which can lead to impaction against other teeth.
4. Early Loss or Retention of Baby Teeth: Losing baby teeth too early or late can cause the permanent teeth to drift and emerge incorrectly.
5. Growth Issues: Abnormal growths or tumors in the jaw can obstruct the path of a tooth’s normal eruption.

Symptoms of Impacted Teeth

The symptoms of impacted teeth can vary depending on their location and the extent of impaction, but common signs include:

• Pain or tenderness in the gums or jawbone
• Redness and swelling in the gums around the impacted tooth
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing on one side
• Occasional pain that radiates towards the ears, cheeks, or neck

Complications Associated with Impacted Teeth

If left untreated, impacted teeth can cause several complications:

• Infection: The area around an impacted tooth can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to painful infections and gum disease.
• Damage to Adjacent Teeth: An impacted tooth can push against neighboring teeth, causing damage or misalignment.
• Cysts and Tumors: Cysts or tumors can develop around the impacted tooth, potentially leading to the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth.
• Chronic Pain: Persistent pain may occur, especially if the impaction leads to nerve damage or significant pressure on surrounding tissues.

Treatment Options for Impacted Teeth

Treatment for impacted teeth depends on the type and severity of the impaction, as well as the associated symptoms:

1. Monitoring: If the impacted tooth is not causing problems, we may recommend regular monitoring to ensure that no complications arise.
2. Surgical Extraction: For problematic impacted teeth, particularly wisdom teeth, surgical removal is often necessary to prevent further issues.
3. Orthodontic Treatment: In some cases, especially with impacted canines or other non-wisdom teeth, orthodontic treatments can help create space and guide the teeth into their correct positions.
4. Medication: If infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection before any surgical procedure.

Preventative Measures

While not all cases of impacted teeth can be prevented, there are measures that can reduce the risk:

• Regular Dental Check-ups: Early detection through x-rays and dental examinations can identify potential impactions before they become problematic.
• Timely Orthodontic Evaluation: If a child is experiencing problems with their jaw development or teeth coming in at the appropriate time, an orthodontic evaluation should be done by the time they are seven years old.
• Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good dental hygiene helps prevent the secondary complications associated with impacted teeth, such as decay and gum disease.

If left untreated, an impacted tooth can cause excruciating pain and eventually lead to more extensive dental issues. Here at Endicott Dental, we're dedicated to helping people in this situation by providing them with excellent care and advice. 

Our committed staff is here to help you maintain good oral health and a beautiful smile through a variety of treatment options, including preventative care, orthodontics, and surgery. Do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation if you think you may be suffering from impacted teeth or other associated symptoms.