What is an impacted tooth?
An impacted tooth is one that has not fully emerged through the gum line or has failed to erupt in the proper position in the mouth. This condition typically occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for the tooth to grow in normally, or when its path is obstructed by another tooth, bone, or soft tissue. While impacted teeth are most commonly associated with wisdom teeth (the third molars at the back of the mouth), they can also affect other teeth such as canines or premolars.
Impacted teeth can remain entirely beneath the gum and bone or may partially erupt. In either case, they can lead to discomfort, dental complications, or may remain unnoticed without symptoms for many years.
Why do teeth become impacted?
There are several reasons why a tooth can become impacted:
- Lack of jaw space: The most common reason is that the mouth does not have enough room to accommodate all incoming teeth, particularly when it comes to the third molars (wisdom teeth).
- Tooth misalignment: If adjacent teeth are misaligned, they can physically block the erupting tooth.
- Overcrowding: Genetic factors, early loss of baby teeth, or delayed exfoliation of baby teeth can lead to overcrowded dental arches, which interfere with proper tooth eruption.
- Abnormal growths: In rare cases, the eruption of teeth can be blocked by cysts, tumors, or unusual tissue formations in the jaw.
Impacted teeth can grow at unusual angles, lie horizontally beneath the gums, or become trapped in the bone. The severity and impact of the condition often depend on the degree of impaction.
Symptoms of an impacted tooth
While some impacted teeth may be asymptomatic and discovered only through routine dental examinations, others can cause a variety of symptoms when complications develop. These may include:
- Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums near the affected area
- Pain in the jaw or around the impacted tooth
- Swelling in the jaw or cheek
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing properly
- Headaches or referred pain in the ears
In certain cases, bacteria and food particles can enter the area around a partially erupted tooth, increasing the risk of infection or abscess formation.
Types of tooth impaction
Dentists typically classify impacted teeth based on their position and how they relate to surrounding gum and bone tissue:
- Soft tissue impaction: The tooth has broken through the bone but remains partially or fully covered by gum tissue.
- Partial bony impaction: Part of the tooth has emerged, but the remainder is still trapped within the jawbone.
- Complete bony impaction: The entire tooth is encased in the bone and has not broken through the gum at all.
Identifying the type of impaction is essential for determining the best course of treatment.
How is an impacted tooth diagnosed?
Dentists can usually identify an impacted tooth during a regular examination by using diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or 3D scans. These tools provide detailed information about the tooth’s location, its orientation, and whether it is pressing against other structures.
At ValbyTand, we utilize state-of-the-art 3D scanning technology to capture a precise model of your mouth. This allows us to detect impacted teeth quickly and plan any necessary treatments with precision and confidence.
Treatment options for impacted teeth
Several treatment strategies may be considered, depending on the type of impaction, the specific tooth involved, the severity of symptoms, and the impact on neighbouring teeth and structures:
- Monitoring: If the tooth is not causing any issues, regular check-ups and monitoring may be sufficient.
- Surgical extraction: Particularly common for wisdom teeth, a surgical procedure may be necessary to remove the impacted tooth from the gum and jawbone under local or general anaesthesia.
- Orthodontic intervention: For impacted canines and similar cases, braces and other orthodontic tools may be used to guide the tooth into the correct position with the assistance of an oral surgeon.
- Infection and pain management: When infections or inflammation occur, antibiotics and pain relief may be prescribed as part of the treatment plan before or after any surgical steps.
Early diagnosis and careful planning are essential to ensure the right treatment approach and to prevent further complications.
Risks of ignoring an impacted tooth
If an impacted tooth is left untreated, it can lead to a number of potential dental complications, such as:
- Infections or abscesses
- Damage to adjacent teeth or their roots
- Cysts or tumors forming around the affected tooth
- Shifting of other teeth, leading to misalignment
- Persistent or worsening jaw pain and difficulty eating
Even when an impacted tooth is not initially painful, regular evaluation is essential to determine whether intervention is needed.
Dentistry expertise in Valby
At ValbyTand in Valby, we have helped generations of patients maintain excellent oral health since 1945. Combining over 75 years of hands-on experience with the latest technology, we ensure comfort, precision, and the best treatment outcomes. We are proud to be Denmark’s first clinic to offer a 3D scan at no additional cost during your first visit—an innovation that allows us to detect issues like impacted teeth accurately and efficiently. Our dedicated team of dentists, hygienists, and clinical staff makes sure every patient feels safe and receives treatment tailored to their needs.
