What is Tooth Impaction?

Unlike other teeth, the third molars are the last to develop, emerging when a patient reaches their late teens or early twenties. Given this late emergence, few have the arch space to accommodate the extra tooth. As a result, when the wisdom teeth try to surface, they can become stuck in the jaw bone or soft tissue.

Known as impaction, this condition opens the door for a number of secondary spacing issues, ranging from overcrowding to misalignment. In some instances, the molar is able to partially emerge. As partial impaction makes it difficult for patients to brush or floss their teeth, this condition can also open the door for a number of dental issues, including periodontal disease, tooth decay, and the development of an abscess. With this in mind, tooth impaction is a serious condition that if left untreated, can cause serious damage to the smile.

How are Impacted Teeth Removed?

Unlike normal tooth extraction, the removal of impacted teeth is a little more extensive. Often, where the impaction occurred as well as the position of the impacted tooth determine how the tooth is to be removed. For example, for patients with partially impacted teeth, the wisdom tooth has already emerged through the bone and can be easily broken down into small pieces for removal. Patients with bony impactions have teeth that are trapped within the jaw bone. As a result, removing these impacted teeth may require that a small amount of bone is removed to provide access to the trapped molar.

The position of the tooth can also present a change in how and when a tooth is removed. If the tooth is erupting normally, without interfering with the neighboring teeth, extraction is a simple process. However, if the tooth begins pushing against neighboring teeth, it can cause significant damage and crowding to the neighboring teeth. For patients that have undergone orthodontic treatments, the development of an impacted wisdom tooth can negate prior treatment. As a result, extraction is recommended as soon as possible.

Removing Wisdom Teeth in Pembroke Pines

At Premier Dental Center, we offer comprehensive extractions for patients suffering from impacted wisdom teeth development. For more information about this service, contact our team today.