WHAT ARE IMPACTED TEETH?

Impaction is the partial eruption of a tooth that did not properly develop through the gum. Most patients often develop impacted teeth with their third molars (wisdom teeth), or the maxillary canines (upper eye teeth). These teeth can get “stuck” in the back of the jaw or roof of the mouth, causing severe pain and infection.

SYMPTOMS OF AN IMPACTED WISDOM TOOTH

• Tooth and jaw pain in the back of the mouth
• Ear, head, or neck pain
• Tender, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Unpleasant breath
• Bad taste in the mouth

WHY DO TEETH BECOME IMPACTED? 

Most cases are caused by teeth crowding, when there is simply a lack of room in the jaw for all teeth to fit in the dental arch. In other cases, some teeth do not follow adjacent teeth to erupt into proper positioning. Among other explanations, theories suggest that genetics may play a factor in impacted teeth, as well as various oral abnormalities.

WHEN DO IMPACTED TEETH NEED TO BE REMOVED? 

The extraction of impacted teeth is necessary in the following cases: when the teeth are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth; before infection develops; and if functionality of surrounding teeth is compromised.

Impacted teeth can take many positions in the bone, as they attempt to find a pathway that will allow them to erupt successfully. Teeth may become twisted, tilted, displaced, partially emerged from the gum line, or even remain trapped beneath gum and bone as they try to emerge.

WHAT TO EXPECT FOR IMPACTED TOOTH REMOVAL? 

Prior to removing an impacted tooth, Ocoee Oral Surgeons will use a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the tooth, or a general anesthetic may be provided. The tissue connecting the tooth to the bone will be removed and then the tooth will be extracted. Often the tooth will be cut into smaller pieces to make removal easier.

Once the tooth is removed, stitches may be needed. A gauze pad is then placed over the stitches to help the bleeding subside. Some stitches dissolve over time, but others require in-office removal within a few days after surgery. Our oral surgeons and staff will discuss aftercare & recovery with you and a time to schedule a follow-up appointment, if necessary.

If you are experiencing high levels of pain, contact us immediately so we can prescribe the appropriate medications for your tooth extraction.

New patient? If this is your first visit to Ocoee Oral Surgery, click here for new patient information, what to expect, and oral care instructions.