What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth? Is Extraction Necessary?
An impacted wisdom tooth is a tooth that fails to emerge normally into the mouth, remaining partially or fully trapped beneath the gums or within the jawbone. This condition most commonly affects the third molars—the last set of molars located at the back of the upper and lower jaws.
Wisdom teeth typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. However, if there isn’t enough space in the jaw or if the tooth is misaligned, it may become impacted and unable to emerge properly.
Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can be classified into two main types based on their eruption pattern:
1
Partially Erupted Wisdom Teeth but fails to break through the gum completely.
2
Fully Impacted Wisdom Teeth remain entirely beneath the gums and jawbone, making them invisible inside the mouth.
As a wisdom tooth tries to emerge, it may cause pain, swelling, and discomfort due to the lack of space. Dentists highly recommend early wisdom tooth extraction before complications arise. If left untreated, it can lead to complications affecting the gums, adjacent teeth, and jawbone.
In addition, wisdom teeth can cause potential complications
Tooth Decay
Plaque and food particles can accumulate around partially erupted wisdom teeth, which can cause the risk of tooth decay, infections, pain, swelling, or pus formation of both impacted wisdom teeth and adjacent teeth.
Crowding
Wisdom tooth growing at an angle may push against adjacent teeth, causing crowding or misalignment.
Gum Disease
An improperly erupted wisdom tooth can harbor bacteria, leading to gum inflammation, pain, swelling, bad breath, and even difficulty moving the jaw.
Jaw Tumors and Cysts
In some cases, fluid-filled cysts or benign tumors can develop around the impacted tooth, potentially damaging the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
Tooth Decay
Plaque and food particles can accumulate around partially erupted wisdom teeth, which can cause the risk of tooth decay, infections, pain, swelling, or pus formation of both impacted wisdom teeth and adjacent teeth.
Crowding
Wisdom tooth growing at an angle may push against adjacent teeth, causing crowding or misalignment.
Gum Disease
An improperly erupted wisdom tooth can harbor bacteria, leading to gum inflammation, pain, swelling, bad breath, and even difficulty moving the jaw.
Jaw Tumors and Cysts
In some cases, fluid-filled cysts or benign tumors can develop around the impacted tooth, potentially damaging the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Process
- The dentist examines and evaluates the position, condition, and surrounding structures of the wisdom tooth using X-rays.
- Local Anesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free experience. At DentalWise Clinic, we use high-quality anesthesia in the optimal amount, allowing patients to undergo extraction comfortably and without pain.
- After the extraction, the dentist stitches the surgical site and provides detailed post-operative care instructions for a smooth recovery.
Post-Wisdom Tooth Removal Care
Patients should follow these post-operative care instructions after the treatment:
- Bite on a gauze pad firmly for at least one hour to control bleeding.
- Avoid frequent gauze changes by waiting for at least 20 minutes before replacing it, as consistent pressure helps blood clot formation.
- Do not spit or rinse forcefully if bleeding persists; instead, swallow saliva naturally to avoid disrupting the clot.
- Drink water from a glass instead of using a straw to prevent suction that may dislodge the clot.
- Get adequate rest and avoid strenuous activities.
- Refrain from consuming hot foods and beverages on the day of surgery to minimize bleeding.
At DentalWise Clinic, our highly experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide professional care with a step-by-step approach, ensuring a safe, smooth, and stress-free experience. From the initial consultation to post-surgical follow-ups.
Our Specialists
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