Impaction of Third Molars

Impaction of third molars, also known as impacted wisdom teeth, occurs when the third molars (wisdom teeth) do not have enough space to erupt into the mouth or develop normally. This can cause the tooth to become trapped in the jawbone and gum tissue, leading to potential complications.

Causes of Impaction

The main causes of impaction of third molars include:

• Lack of space in the jawbone for the tooth to erupt
• Abnormal shape or size of the tooth
• Overcrowding of teeth in the mouth
• Genetic factors, such as a smaller jaw size

Symptoms of Impaction

Symptoms of impaction of third molars may include:

• Pain or tenderness in the gums and jaw
• Swelling or redness of the gums
• Bleeding or discharge from the affected area
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste
• Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing

Types of Impaction

There are several types of impaction, including:

• Mesial impaction: The tooth is angled towards the adjacent tooth
• Distal impaction: The tooth is angled away from the adjacent tooth
• Vertical impaction: The tooth is unable to erupt due to lack of space
• Horizontal impaction: The tooth is lying horizontally in the jawbone

Treatment Options

Treatment options for impaction of third molars include:

• Surgical removal of the impacted tooth (extraction)
• Coronectomy: Removal of the crown of the tooth, leaving the roots intact
• Monitoring and observation to see if the tooth will erupt on its own

Risks and Complications

Risks and complications associated with impaction of third molars include:

• Infection or abscess formation
• Cysts or tumors forming around the impacted tooth
• Damage to adjacent teeth or jawbone
• Nerve damage or numbness in the face or mouth

Prevention

To prevent impaction of third molars, regular dental check-ups and monitoring of wisdom tooth development are recommended. In some cases, preventive extraction of wisdom teeth may be recommended to avoid potential complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is impaction of third molars?
A condition where the wisdom teeth do not have enough space to erupt normally.

What causes impaction of third molars?
Lack of space in the jawbone for the tooth to come in properly.

What are the symptoms of impacted third molars?
Pain, swelling, infection, and difficulty opening the mouth.

How is impaction of third molars diagnosed?
Through clinical examination and X-rays.

Can impaction of third molars be prevented?
No, but regular dental check-ups can help identify potential issues early.

What are the risks of not treating impacted third molars?
Infection, cysts, and damage to surrounding teeth.

How are impacted third molars typically treated?
Surgical removal of the tooth.

Is surgery for impacted third molars always necessary?
No, but often recommended to prevent complications.

What is the recovery time after surgery for impacted third molars?
Typically a few days to a week.

Are there any potential complications from surgery for impacted third molars?
Dry socket, infection, and nerve damage.