What is an impacted tooth?

An impacted tooth is a common dental issue that occurs when a tooth is unable to fully erupt through the gumline. Instead of emerging properly, the tooth becomes stuck, or "impacted," often due to overcrowding or misalignment within the jaw. While any tooth can become impacted, it’s most commonly associated with wisdom teeth, the third set of molars that typically erupt in the late teens or early twenties.

Causes of Impacted Teeth

There are several reasons a tooth may become impacted. One of the most common causes is simply a lack of space in the jaw. When there’s not enough room for a tooth to grow in its natural position, it may get trapped beneath the gum tissue or press against other teeth. Genetics can also play a role in how teeth emerge, and certain teeth may grow in at an angle, further complicating the situation.

Symptoms of an Impacted Tooth

Not all impacted teeth cause pain or noticeable symptoms. However, many people experience discomfort, which may signal that a tooth is impacted. Here are some common symptoms:

Pain or discomfort: You may feel pain or pressure in your jaw, near the site of the impacted tooth. This pain can intensify when chewing or biting.

Swelling or tenderness: The gums around an impacted tooth may become swollen or tender to the touch. In some cases, you may also notice redness or bleeding in the affected area.

Difficulty opening the mouth: In more severe cases, an impacted tooth can make it difficult to fully open your mouth or chew food comfortably.

Bad breath or unpleasant taste: An impacted tooth may create an area where bacteria can build up, leading to bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth.

Treatment for an Impacted Tooth

If left untreated, impacted teeth can lead to further complications, including infections, cysts, or damage to nearby teeth. A dentist or oral surgeon will likely recommend removal, especially if the impacted tooth is causing pain, misalignment, or other dental issues. In some cases, minor surgical intervention may be required to fully extract the tooth and prevent future problems.

Recognizing the signs of an impacted tooth early on can help you avoid complications and maintain better oral health.