Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop, usually surfacing during early adulthood. While some people experience no issues, many face challenges when these teeth become impacted. An impacted wisdom tooth can lead to discomfort, dental problems, and even long-term complications if left untreated. This guide covers everything you need to know about impacted wisdom teeth, including their symptoms and available treatment options.
What Are Wisdom Teeth, and Why Do They Become Impacted?
Wisdom teeth, positioned at the very back of your mouth, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most individuals have four wisdom teeth—two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw.
An impacted wisdom tooth develops when there isn’t sufficient space for it to emerge correctly. This lack of room can cause the tooth to grow at an improper angle, stay partially erupted, or fail to erupt entirely. Several factors contribute to impacted wisdom teeth, including:
- Jaw size: A smaller jaw may not provide enough room for these latecomers.
- Tooth position: If other teeth obstruct the wisdom tooth, it can remain trapped.
Types of Wisdom Tooth Impactions: What You Should Know
Wisdom teeth can get impacted in different ways depending on their position and the available space in your jaw. Understanding these types of impactions can help you and your dentist decide on the best course of treatment.
Fully Impacted Wisdom Tooth
A fully impacted wisdom tooth is completely trapped beneath the gum tissue or embedded in the jawbone. This type often requires surgical removal by experienced dentists. Symptoms may not always be apparent, but the tooth can cause significant problems, including pain, infections, and pressure on nearby teeth.
Partially Impacted Wisdom Tooth
Partially impacted wisdom teeth have only partially erupted through the gum line. These teeth are more prone to complications such as:
- Tooth decay: Food particles and bacteria can accumulate around the exposed part of the tooth.
- Gum infections: Inflamed and swollen gums can lead to discomfort and periodontal disease.
- Unpleasant taste or bad breath: Caused by bacteria trapped under the gum tissue.
Vertical Impaction
A vertically impacted wisdom tooth is positioned correctly but fails to fully erupt due to lack of space. While this type may not immediately cause discomfort, it can press against other molar teeth or lead to alignment issues.
Horizontal Impaction
Horizontal impaction happens when a wisdom tooth grows sideways, frequently pushing against the roots of the second molar. This type of impaction can lead to:
- Severe pain and pressure on nearby teeth.
- Potential damage to the second molar.
- Increased risk of jaw complications or bone damage.
Mesial Impaction
Mesial impaction occurs when a wisdom tooth is angled toward the front of the mouth. This is one of the most common types of impaction and can cause discomfort, crowding, or misalignment of other teeth.
Distal Impaction
Distal impaction, a less common condition, occurs when a wisdom tooth is angled toward the back of the mouth. Whether the third molar removal is necessary depends on the angle’s severity and the available space for the tooth.
Why Identifying the Type of Impaction Matters
Each type of impaction poses unique challenges and risks. Your dentist will examine the position of your wisdom teeth using X-rays to determine:
- The severity of the impaction: Fully and horizontally impacted teeth often require surgical intervention.
- Potential complications: Including damage to nearby teeth, gum disease, and jaw problems.
- The best treatment plan: This may include monitoring the tooth, orthodontic treatment, or surgical removal.
If you’re experiencing discomfort or suspect you have an impacted wisdom tooth, schedule a consultation with your dentist to assess your condition and discuss available treatment options. Early diagnosis can help prevent future problems and maintain your oral health.
Recognising the Symptoms of an Impacted Wisdom Tooth
An impacted wisdom tooth doesn’t always show obvious symptoms, but common signs include:
- Swollen gums: Inflamed gum tissue around the tooth.
- Pain: Persistent discomfort or pressure in the back of the jaw.
- Bad breath: Resulting from trapped food particles and the accumulation of bacteria.
- Unpleasant taste: Often a result of infections in the gum tissue.
- Difficulty opening the mouth: A sign of advanced impaction or infection.
Why Impacted Wisdom Teeth Can’t Be Ignored
Impacted wisdom teeth may not always cause immediate pain or obvious symptoms, but ignoring them can lead to serious dental and health issues. Whether fully impacted, partially erupted, or growing at the wrong angle, these troublesome teeth can pose risks that extend beyond discomfort. Here’s why addressing impacted wisdom teeth promptly is crucial.
Greater Vulnerability to Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Partially erupted wisdom teeth are especially vulnerable to decay and infections:
- Tooth decay: The awkward positioning makes cleaning difficult, allowing food particles and bacteria to accumulate.
- Gum infections: Swollen gums surrounding the partially erupted tooth can develop into painful infections, which may spread to nearby teeth or other areas of the mouth.
- Periodontal disease: Long-term gum inflammation can lead to advanced gum disease, causing bone loss and threatening the stability of nearby teeth.
Pressure on Nearby Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent molars, leading to:
- Crowding: Misalignment of other teeth, potentially reversing orthodontic treatment.
- Damage to adjacent teeth: Prolonged pressure can weaken the roots or enamel of second molars.
Development of Cysts or Tumours
In severe cases, a developing wisdom tooth can form a cyst—a fluid-filled sac that develops in the jawbone. Left untreated, cysts can:
- Damage surrounding bone.
- Displace or weaken adjacent teeth.
- Occasionally, it leads to the development of benign tumours, requiring more extensive surgical intervention.
Jaw Pain and Stiffness
Impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to jaw discomfort or restricted mouth opening. This is often a result of inflammation or pressure exerted on the jawbone. Chronic irritation may even lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, causing difficulty in chewing and speaking.
Potential for Severe Infections
If bacteria enter the gum tissue around a partially erupted wisdom tooth, it can lead to pericoronitis, a painful infection. Symptoms include swollen gums, bad breath, and difficulty swallowing. In rare cases, untreated infections can spread to other areas, causing serious health problems.
Unpredictable Eruption and Alignment
As wisdom teeth erupt, they can move into unpredictable positions due to limited space, including:
- Vertical impaction: Growing in the correct direction but failing to erupt fully.
- Horizontal impaction: Pushing sideways against the roots of nearby teeth.
These irregular growth patterns can disrupt the alignment of your entire smile or lead to persistent pain.
Difficulty Maintaining Oral Hygiene
The position of wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth makes them challenging to clean thoroughly, increasing the likelihood of plaque buildup and bad breath. Over time, poor oral hygiene around wisdom teeth can escalate into more serious dental problems.
Potential for Jaw Fractures
In rare cases, an untreated, impacted tooth can weaken the jawbone. This increases the risk of jaw fractures, particularly in older adults with pre-existing bone loss.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to consult your dentist:
- Pain or pressure in the back of your jaw.
- Swollen or bleeding gums.
- Chronic bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing.
Routine dental check-ups and X-rays can detect impacted wisdom teeth early, helping to prevent potential complications.
Ignoring Impacted Wisdom Teeth Isn’t Worth the Risk
While impacted wisdom teeth may seem harmless at first, the long-term risks far outweigh the inconvenience of addressing them early. From gum disease and tooth caries to more severe complications like jaw issues and cysts, untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can jeopardise your dental health and overall well-being.
If you think you may have impacted wisdom teeth, don’t delay. Book an appointment with your dentist to assess your situation and explore treatment options. Addressing the issue promptly can help you avoid future discomfort and expensive dental complications.
When Should You Remove Wisdom Teeth?
The decision to extract wisdom teeth depends on the patient’s preference, the severity of symptoms, and the dentist’s recommendation. Dentists often suggest removing wisdom teeth at a younger age when the bones and tissues heal more quickly.
The Removal of Wisdom Teeth: Step-by-Step
Removing wisdom teeth can range from a simple extraction to a more complex surgical procedure, depending on the tooth’s position and level of impaction. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Consultation and Assessment
Your dentist will evaluate your wisdom teeth using X-rays to determine:
- Their position.
- The extent of impaction.
- Any potential complications, including the tooth’s proximity to nerves or surrounding structures.
Step 2: Anaesthesia Options
Most upper wisdom teeth can be removed easily under a local anaesthetic. Lower wisdom teeth can be more difficult to remove. Before the procedure, you’ll discuss anaesthesia options, which may include:
- Local anaesthetic: Numbs the immediate area for simple extractions.
- General anaesthetic: Used for surgical removal of unerupted wisdom teeth or multiple extractions to ensure comfort.
Step 3: Tooth Removal
The actual removal process varies depending on the complexity:
- Simple extractions: For fully erupted wisdom teeth, the dentist uses forceps to remove the tooth.
- Surgical removal: For impacted teeth, the dentist may need to make an incision through the gum tissue and remove a small portion of bone to access the tooth.
Step 4: Closing the Site
Once the tooth is removed, the area may be stitched to aid healing. You’ll be given instructions for aftercare to ensure proper recovery.
Recovery After Getting Your Wisdom Tooth Removed
Healing time depends on the complexity of the procedure and individual factors. Most patients recover fully within one to two weeks.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Follow post-op care instructions: Avoid smoking, drinking through straws, or vigorous rinsing to prevent dry sockets.
- Use cold compresses: Helps reduce swelling.
- Stick to soft foods: Opt for items like soup, mashed potatoes, and yoghurt.
- Maintain oral hygiene: Gently clean the area to avoid infections.
Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Healing after wisdom tooth extraction involves managing potential risks like dry sockets and infections. Tips for recovery include:
- Apply a cold compress: Reduces swelling.
- Avoid straws: Prevents dislodging the blood clot in the tooth socket.
- Eat soft foods: Minimise pressure on the extraction site.
Potential Risks of Wisdom Teeth Removal
While wisdom tooth extraction is generally safe, potential complications may arise, including:
- Dry socket: A painful condition when the blood clot is disturbed.
- Infections: Rare but possible, especially in cases of poor aftercare.
- Jaw stiffness: Temporary discomfort in opening the mouth.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. If they emerge in the correct position and have sufficient space, they are unlikely to cause issues. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor their development.
FAQs About Impacted Wisdom Teeth and Removal
- Can wisdom teeth grow back after removal?
Once removed, wisdom teeth do not grow back. However, in rare cases, a small fragment of the tooth or root left behind may cause discomfort and may need additional treatment.
- Can I go to work or school after wisdom teeth removal?
You may need to take a day or two off to recover, especially if sedation or surgery is involved. Most people return to normal activities within a few days, depending on the complexity of the extraction and their recovery.
- When is the best time to remove wisdom teeth?
The best time to remove wisdom teeth is typically in early adulthood, typically between 17 and 25 years old. Younger patients experience faster recovery and lower risk of complications because their jawbone is less dense.
- What happens if impacted wisdom teeth are left untreated?
Untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to:
- Gum infections.
- Tooth decay or damage to nearby teeth.
- Cysts or bone loss around the tooth.
- Alignment issues or crowded teeth.
- How long does it take to recover after wisdom teeth removal?
Recovery usually takes about 1–2 weeks. Swelling and discomfort usually diminish within a few days, but full healing of the gum tissue and bone can take longer. Following aftercare instructions is crucial for faster recovery.
- Does wisdom teeth removal hurt?
During the procedure, you will feel comfortable due to local or general anaesthesia. Some discomfort is normal during recovery, but pain can be easily controlled with prescribed medications and appropriate aftercare.
- What are dry sockets, and how can I avoid them?
A dry socket often develops when the blood clot protecting the tooth socket dislodges, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. To avoid dry socket:
- Don’t use straws or smoke during recovery.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare.
- Can partially erupted wisdom teeth cause problems?
Yes, partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to gum infections, tooth decay, and bad breath. These teeth are more prone to complications and often require removal.
- Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?
During the initial days, stick to soft foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, and yoghurt. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until your dentist provides further guidance. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as your recovery progresses.
- How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?
The cost varies based on the procedure’s complexity, the number of teeth removed, and the type of anaesthetic required. Contact your dentist for a customised quote.
- What should I do if I suspect problems with my wisdom teeth?
If you experience pain, swelling, or other symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can evaluate your condition and develop a suitable treatment plan.
Conclusion: When in Doubt, Consult a Professional
An impacted wisdom tooth can cause significant discomfort and long-term dental problems if not addressed. Whether it’s partially erupted wisdom teeth, a fully impacted wisdom tooth, or other complications, seeking professional advice is crucial.
Your dentist will guide you through the right treatment options, ensuring your smile remains healthy. Don’t wait for dental problems to escalate—schedule a consultation to evaluate your wisdom teeth today.
For further guidance, contact Advanced Dental Care at (02) 6188 7103 for expert care and personalised guidance.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Aesthetic Dental Associates. (n.d.). Types of impactions. Retrieved from https://www.aestheticdentalassoc.com/services/general-dentistry/wisdom-teeth/types-of-impactions/
National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Local Anesthesia Techniques in Dentistry and Oral Surgery Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK580480/
Healthline. (n.d.). Tooth extraction. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/tooth-extraction
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dry socket. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17731-dry-socket
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Bad breath: Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bad-breath/symptoms-causes/syc-20350922
