Dental impaction

Dental impaction is a condition where a tooth fails to fully emerge through the gums. It is a common dental problem, often occurring with wisdom teeth, but it can happen to any tooth.

Causes

Dental impaction can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is a lack of space in the mouth. This can occur if the jaw is too small to accommodate all the teeth, or if the teeth are too large for the jaw. Other causes can include teeth that are coming in at an angle, or teeth that are displaced due to injury or disease.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dental impaction can vary depending on the severity and location of the impaction. Common symptoms can include pain and swelling in the gums, difficulty opening the mouth, bad breath, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all.

Treatment

Treatment for dental impaction typically involves surgical removal of the impacted tooth. This is usually performed by an oral surgeon. In some cases, other treatments may be used, such as orthodontic treatment to create more space in the mouth.

Complications

If left untreated, dental impaction can lead to serious complications. These can include infection, damage to adjacent teeth, and the development of cysts or tumors in the jaw.

Prevention

Prevention of dental impaction can be difficult, as it is often caused by factors that are out of a person's control, such as the size of their jaw or teeth. However, regular dental check-ups can help to identify potential problems early, and orthodontic treatment can sometimes be used to prevent impaction.