Impacted Tooth: Types, Signs, Symptoms & Treatment

Impacted teeth develop improperly and can cause significant pain and other dental issues if not addressed promptly. However, teeth that are blocked from fully erupting through the gums sometimes exhibit no symptoms at all. If you experience oral discomfort or observe teeth that are not completely emerging from the gums, consult your dentist. They can inform you about the best treatment options and what might be happening in your mouth. Always adhere to your oral care routine to prevent tooth infections.

An impacted tooth is one that becomes lodged beneath the gumline or only partially breaks through, due to an obstruction from other teeth, bone, or soft tissue. A tooth can also be partially impacted, appearing as if it is attempting to emerge through the gumline. This condition can arise if there isn't sufficient space for the new tooth to grow in, if the tooth is developing crookedly, or if something is physically blocking its eruption. Impacted teeth necessitate evaluation by a dentist or orthodontist.

While some impacted teeth have no major effect on dental health, other situations may lead a dentist to recommend a tooth extraction or another form of treatment. The approach to an impacted tooth largely depends on its potential impact on your oral health. When you notice an impacted tooth, have it examined by a dentist promptly, as it can lead to infections or other dental issues in your mouth.

Impacted teeth are a frequent occurrence during one's developmental years. Approximately 9 out of 10 individuals experience at least one impacted wisdom tooth by early adulthood. It is common to undergo dental surgery either to remove the wisdom tooth or to assist its proper eruption.

Impacted teeth present with various signs and symptoms, which differ based on your unique oral health condition. You might have an impacted tooth if you observe any of the following symptoms:

• Jaw pain

• Red, swollen gums

• Bad breath

• Difficulty opening your mouth

• Headaches

Visit your dentist immediately if you suspect you have an impacted tooth or experience any oral discomfort. An impacted tooth can lead to other dental issues and requires prompt attention. An impacted tooth can result in cavities (especially in an adjacent tooth), gum disease, pericoronitis (inflammation and infection of the gum tissue around an impacted tooth), and more.

Typically, a dentist will utilize x-rays to determine the appropriate treatment for an impacted tooth. Depending on its growth pattern, a dentist may need to extract the tooth. Your dentist will examine your mouth and establish the correct treatment for your impacted tooth and any other underlying concerns. Extracting an impacted tooth is a common treatment that dentists may recommend.

Schedule regular visits to your dentist or dental hygienist for dental cleanings and exams, particularly when new teeth are erupting. Diligently caring for your oral health and brushing and flossing daily can also help you notice if any other tooth symptoms emerge.

The primary categories of impacted teeth include:

• Soft tissue impaction

• Partial bony impaction

• Full bony impaction

Impacted teeth are also classified by their growth direction.

These include:

• Mesial: Angled toward the front of the mouth—this is the most prevalent type.

• Vertical: Upright but trapped beneath the gumline.

• Horizontal: Lying completely on its side.

• Distal: Angled backward towards the rear of the mouth.

Your dentist can provide you with more detailed information about your specific impacted tooth, its type, and their recommended treatment plan.

Common oral health issues include cavities and tooth decay, gum disease, staining, and sensitivity. The main culprit behind these is often plaque buildup, a sticky bacterial film that forms on teeth. By consistently following a complete oral care routine, you can preemptively tackle these issues, leading to a stronger, healthier smile:

• Protect Your Smile with Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste: Ensure you brush twice a day with a stannous fluoride toothpaste. Not only does it help combat cavities and tooth decay, but a Crest toothpaste formulated with stannous fluoride also strengthens enamel, fights sensitivity, and provides lasting protection against plaque bacteria with twice-daily brushing.

• Rinse with Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash: Swish with an antibacterial mouthwash like Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash to help eliminate plaque bacteria, support gum health, and rinse away loosened food particles, leaving your mouth feeling clean and fresh.

• Brush 2x/day with an Oral-B iO Electric Toothbrush: An an Oral-B iO, electric toothbrush helps remove 100% more plaque than a regular manual toothbrush. Its dentist-inspired round brush head envelops each tooth, adapting to the contours of teeth and gums to ensure a cleaner, healthier smile—even in hard-to-reach areas.

• Complete your oral care ritual by flossing at least once daily with Oral-B floss. Flossing is crucial for reaching the tight spaces where food particles and plaque accumulate. By meticulously removing these odor sources, you ensure every surface of your teeth is clean, contributing to an undeniably fresh and clean smile.

By following a thorough oral care routine at home and visiting your dental professional at least twice a year, you can reduce the risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease, and protect your smile for years to come.