Wisdom Teeth: Why do they become impacted?

04 May Wisdom Teeth: Why do they become impacted?

Tooth impaction is one of the leading causes of wisdom teeth extraction. When the teeth are prevented from growing in properly, a number of dental conditions can arise. Typically, in order to prevent dental and health complications, your dentist will suggest the removal of impacted third molars. In some unfortunate cases, the impacted teeth can cause discomfort and complications that prompt patients to seek their removal.

Dental x-rays and a clinical exam are necessary to diagnose an impacted tooth. Though patients may experience sensitivity or discomfort in the rear of the mouth, a professional diagnosis is the only way to determine if the source is an impacted tooth.

For the great majority of patients, the wisdom teeth may become impacted due to a lack of space in the mouth. If there space at the very end of the arch is limited, there may not be enough room to allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly.

When the teeth are not positioned ideally, impaction is often the result. In the case of the wisdom teeth, this scenario presents itself fairly often. The wisdom teeth may be angled toward the front or rear of the mouth, or in some instances, completely sideways. The chances that teeth in this position could erupt in a healthy manner are extremely low. In fact, these teeth can be predicted to lead to damage or other health concerns in the process.

Impacted teeth are the common cause of bone loss and tooth decay in the rear of the mouth. Since it is virtually impossible to clean the area surrounding such a tooth, bacteria are permitted to accumulate and the result is infection of the neighboring teeth and gums.

It is also common for a cyst or pocket to develop around an impacted tooth, contributing to extensive damage of the jaw bone and underlying nerves.

Your dentist has the expertise to evaluate your wisdom teeth in the very early stages of development in order to determine the prognosis. If complications can be predicted, the recommendation may be tooth extraction.

To find out if your wisdom teeth are impacted, schedule a consultation in our Arlington TX office today.