Fix Impacted Teeth

For a most patients, the baby teeth become loose, fall out, and an adult tooth erupts in the empty space. It is common, however, that when the adult teeth erupt, they do not come in perfectly straight. As a result, orthodontic treatment using Invisalign or braces will be necessary in order to shift the teeth into an aligned bite position and to also correct crowding. In some cases, one or more of the adult teeth fail to erupt on their own, even though they are properly developed in the jaw bone. This condition is called impacted teeth.

Impacted Teeth

Tooth impaction often occurs as the result of a crowding issue. When the new tooth does not have adequate room, it can fail to erupt and remain stuck below the gums. A full impaction occurs when the tooth fails to erupt whatsoever, and a partial impaction occurs when the tip of the tooth reaches the gumline, but does not completely grow in.

It is quite common for the wisdom teeth to become impacted. They may be impacted because there is not enough room for them in the jaw, they could be crooked, or they can even be sideways, which can compromise the root of the second molars.

The other teeth which are often impacted are the upper canines. If you family has a history of having impacted upper canines, it is likely that you will have them as well. In most cases, only one canine will be impacted. It is possible though for both canines to be impacted. You may be wondering why the upper canines are often impacted. They normally come in following the incisors and the premolars. When those teeth fail to leave enough room, the canines have nowhere to go when it is their turn.

Impacted Teeth: Symptoms and Complications

Some people who have an impacted tooth show no symptoms other than the tooth’s failure to erupt. If the canine is effected, it is possible that the baby tooth never becomes loose. Even without experiencing any symptoms, the canine teeth are vital for a great smile because they provide important structure and support in the mouth. They also take on a great deal of the chewing pressure due to their longer roots. This helps to protect the adjacent teeth.

Impacted teeth often result in complications and symptoms other than a misaligned smile. Impacted teeth can push into the neighboring teeth below the gums and cause issues such as cavities, infections, gum disease, and even nerve damage. Symptoms may include bad breath, discomfort, sensitivity around the jawline, a headache or jaw ache, swollen gums, swollen lymph nodes, a foul taste in the mouth, and visible spaces.

Impacted Teeth Treatment

It is not usually possible to prevent a tooth impaction, but the tooth can be removed. This is especially common for impacted wisdom teeth. They can also be moved into the correct position, which is often done with the canines. The adjustment of the canines is often performed with oral surgery and orthodontic treatment. An impacted tooth is typically found using x-rays. Once the situation is identified, the orthodontist can determine the ideal treatment plan.

Fix Oral Health Issues : Fix Stained Teeth