Impacted wisdom teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars at the back of the mouth that don't have enough room to emerge or grow normally.

Causes

Impacted wisdom teeth can be caused by a number of factors. The primary cause is a lack of space in the jaw for the teeth to grow in properly. This can be due to the size of the jaw, the size of the teeth, or both. Other factors that can contribute to the development of impacted wisdom teeth include genetics and the angle at which the teeth are growing in.

Symptoms

Symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth can vary greatly depending on the severity of the impaction. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have severe pain and discomfort. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth or jaw
• Swelling around the jaw
• Red or swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• An unpleasant taste in the mouth

Treatment

Treatment for impacted wisdom teeth depends on the severity of the impaction and the symptoms experienced by the patient. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. However, if the impacted wisdom teeth are causing pain or other problems, treatment options may include:

• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help to alleviate the pain and swelling associated with impacted wisdom teeth.
• Oral surgery: In severe cases, it may be necessary to remove the impacted wisdom teeth. This is usually done under local or general anesthesia.
• Antibiotics: If the impacted wisdom teeth have caused an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear it up.

Prevention

While it's not always possible to prevent impacted wisdom teeth, regular dental check-ups can help to identify potential problems early. Maintaining good oral hygiene can also help to prevent infections and other complications associated with impacted wisdom teeth.

See also

• Dental extraction
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Tooth impaction

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