Impacted Teeth Most teeth typically emerge without causing complications. However, some may become trapped beneath the gum line or within the jawbone during eruption. When this happens, the tooth is considered impacted. Impacted teeth can lead to infections, tooth decay, and deterioration of nearby structures.At Oral Surgery Specialists of Buda, we have extensive experience diagnosing and treating issues related to impacted teeth and gum tissue. Our dedicated team is committed to providing attentive, personalized care. If you suspect a tooth may be impacted, contact our office to schedule an evaluation. What is an Impacted Tooth?Impacted teeth are a common concern we address at our dental practice. This condition occurs when a tooth does not erupt properly through the gum line. Any tooth can become impacted, including canines, molars, premolars, and incisors. The type and timing of impaction often vary by age. Canines, for instance, may become impacted between the ages of 10 and 13, when these teeth typically erupt. Wisdom teeth are the most frequently impacted, usually between the late teens and early twenties. Due to their location at the back of the mouth, impacted wisdom teeth are more likely to cause pain, infection, and swelling. In many cases, they require a procedure known as impacted tooth exposure to prevent or resolve complications. Why is Impacted Tooth Exposure Necessary?Impacted teeth can lead to several oral health concerns. When a tooth grows in the wrong position, it can create gaps or crowding that affect both the function and appearance of your smile. These spaces can trap food particles and bacteria, making proper oral hygiene more difficult and increasing the risk of decay. An impacted tooth may also push against adjacent teeth, leading to misalignment or bite problems such as overbites and underbites. This irregular pressure can wear down enamel and contribute to premature tooth loss. Additionally, the impaction may damage surrounding gum tissue, increasing your risk of inflammation and infection. Impacted tooth exposure allows the dentist to uncover the tooth and assess its development, as well as the condition of the surrounding tissues. Impacted Tooth Exposure Procedure and What to ExpectImpacted tooth exposure is a surgical procedure designed to uncover a tooth that has failed to erupt normally. During the procedure, your oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and surrounding bone. In some cases, small amounts of bone may be removed to clear the tooth's eruption path. The treatment is typically performed under IV sedation for your comfort. Once the tooth is exposed, a small dental appliance, such as a bracket and chain, may be placed to guide the tooth into its proper position over time. The gum tissue is then sutured with dissolvable stitches. The procedure is generally well-tolerated and minimally invasive. While some discomfort may occur afterward, our dentist will prescribe appropriate pain management options to help ease any soreness. Most patients can return to a soft diet within two to three days. We will schedule follow-up visits to monitor the tooth's progress and ensure the surrounding tissues remain healthy. These visits help ensure a smoother, more effective treatment process. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of an impacted tooth, call (737) 335-0017 to schedule a consultation at Oral Surgery Specialists of Buda. Our experienced team is here to provide gentle, effective care to restore your oral health and comfort. |
