TL;DR
- Impacted wisdom teeth occur when third molars fail to fully emerge, often causing pain, swelling, bad breath, and difficulty chewing, typically between ages 17 and 25.
- Untreated impacted teeth can lead to infections, tooth decay, cysts that damage the bone, crowding, and chronic jaw pain.
- Treatment depends on symptoms and severity:
- Asymptomatic cases may simply be monitored through regular dental checkups.
- Symptomatic cases often require surgical extraction. Recovery usually takes 2–4 days before normal activities can resume.
- Not all impacted teeth require removal; dentists may recommend observation for teeth that are not causing problems.
What Happens When Your Wisdom Teeth Don’t Develop Properly?
Wisdom teeth are types of molars located at the very back of your mouth. They typically mature between the ages of 17 and 25. For some, they come in smoothly without any issues. For others, however, they become impacted, failing to fully break through the gum line or growing at awkward angles.
Many people are unaware of how frequently impacted wisdom teeth occur and the problems they can cause. Left untreated, they can lead to gum swelling, chronic discomfort, infections, and even damage to neighboring teeth. Early detection is essential to preventing serious complications.
This guide covers the warning signs of impacted wisdom teeth, the causes of impaction, potential risks, usual treatment options, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Get Stuck?
Wisdom teeth don’t always have an easy growth process in the mouth.
For many people, there simply isn’t enough space in the jaw to accommodate an extra set of teeth, especially molars. As diets and lifestyles have evolved, our jaws have become smaller, making it harder for wisdom teeth to fit comfortably.
Sometimes, a wisdom tooth emerges at an awkward angle, pressing against the molar in front of it, much like someone trying to squeeze into a crowded row of seats. Other times, nearby teeth act as barriers, preventing the new tooth from fully erupting. Thick gum tissue or dense bone can also make the eruption process more difficult.
Common Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth usually become impacted because of a lack of space. Some of the more frequent signs and symptoms include:
- A dull ache or sharp pain right at the back of your jaw.
- Tenderness or swelling near where the wisdom tooth should be.
- Bad breath or a lingering, strange taste in your mouth.
- Difficulty opening your mouth wide or discomfort while chewing.
- Pain radiating to the head, the ears, and even down the neck.
These symptoms may be on-and-off initially, which makes them easy to dismiss. However, if something doesn’t feel right, it’s always best to get it checked sooner rather than later.
Potential Complications of Untreated Impaction
When a wisdom tooth only partially emerges, the gum tissue around it may form a “pocket” or flap over part of the tooth. This flap creates a small space where food particles and bacteria can get caught. Because it is difficult to clean this area properly, the trapped debris can cause irritation, swelling, infection, and pain if left untreated. The following are some common complications:
- Pericoronitis, a type of infection of the gum tissue flap covering a partially erupted wisdom tooth.
- Decay in the wisdom tooth itself or in the molars next to it.
- Cysts or fluid-filled sacs that can erode bone and damage nearby tooth roots.
- Damage or crowding of neighboring teeth.
- Ongoing pain and inflammation in the jaw.
- Issues with how your teeth fit together.
Treatment Options for Impacted Wisdom Teeth
The following are some treatment options that we tend to recommend to our patients:
Observation and Monitoring
Fortunately, not all impacted teeth need to be removed. If you don’t present with symptoms, and X-rays show no damage, your dentist may just monitor the situation. Regular visits to the dental office will allow your dentist to examine the site for any changes.
Medication and Pain Relief
If mild infection or swelling develops, dentists can prescribe antibiotics and recommend over-the-counter pain medication. Rinsing with warm salt water also soothes the area. However, while medication will treat the infection, it won’t resolve the underlying impaction itself.
Surgical Extraction
Surgical removal is the most reliable long-term solution. The procedure itself is different depending on the circumstances. Some tooth extractions are quite simple. Others involve cutting into the gum and removing some of the surrounding bone. Local or general anesthesia ensures you’re comfortable during the treatment.
Recovery from this procedure usually takes a few days. Appropriate aftercare can make a big difference.
Orthodontic and Restorative Solutions
Sometimes crowding from impacted teeth can be managed with orthodontic treatment.
In cases where nearby teeth have been damaged, you may require restorations such as fillings, crowns, or even root canal therapy. Your dentist can advise you on the most suitable treatment mix, depending on your specific condition.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost
The cost of an impacted wisdom teeth removal depends on a few factors: where the tooth is located, how complicated the extraction is likely to be, whether you’ll need general anesthesia, and where you live.
Your dental insurance probably covers part of the cost. It’s a good idea to get a specific estimate from your dental office. Many practices offer financing options, so be sure to ask.
Final Note
Impacted wisdom teeth are a very common dental concern. Recognizing the signs early and getting timely care can spare you from pain and more serious complications. We recommend that you speak candidly with your dental specialist about any symptoms you’re experiencing, what exams might be needed, and what your options are.
Take Charge of Your Oral Health With a Trusted Dentist in Norwood
At Norwood Dental, we are committed to providing a welcoming space where patients can discuss their concerns and oral health goals. We focus on supporting our local community by offering reassurance, guidance, and expert care across a wide range of dental treatments.
Visit Norwood Dental today and receive patient-centric care from our experienced dental professionals.
Address: 222 E Wilson St, Norwood Young America, MN 55368
Phone: (952) 467-3518
FAQs
Is wisdom tooth removal painful?
You will feel little to nothing during the actual procedure. Pain is avoided by either local or general anesthesia. Some soreness afterward can be expected, but it’s manageable with medication.
How long does recovery take after extraction?
This first stage typically lasts 2 to 4 days. It may take several weeks for the bone and gum tissue to heal completely. Following your dentist’s after-care instructions will speed up the process.
Can impacted teeth come in later in life?
Most wisdom teeth emerge by the mid-20s, although late eruption can occasionally occur.
Do all impacted wisdom teeth need removal?
No. If they are not causing painful symptoms or posing a risk, your dentist might simply monitor them.
Can wisdom teeth grow back after removal?
No. Once a wisdom tooth is fully removed, it won’t grow back.
