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Impacted Tooth


About this topic


An impacted tooth is one that lies beneath the gum tissue. It has not fully come through the gums to reach its normal place in the mouth. This most often happens with third molars. Third molars are also known as the "wisdom teeth. " � � �
An impacted tooth can cause pain, infection, and gum disease. It may also hurt. An impacted tooth may also affect your other teeth. Not all impacted teeth need treatment. If you do need treatment, your dentist may suggest pulling the tooth or using braces to help the tooth into its proper position. � �

What are the causes?


Your jaw may not have enough space for all your teeth. Sometimes a tooth grows at the wrong angle and causes an impacted tooth. � �

What are the main signs?


  • Mouth or ear pain
  • Pain when opening or closing the jaw
  • Gums are red, swollen, tender, or bleeding
  • Swollen jaw, cheek, or face
  • Bad breath
  • Bad taste in your mouth
  • Headaches

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Your dentist will do an exam of your teeth, mouth, head, and neck. The dentist will order x-rays to see if your signs are related to your impacted tooth. � �

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


Your dentist may do surgery to take out your impacted tooth. You may need to go see an oral surgeon to have this done. � �
Your dentist may suggest using braces to help the tooth into its proper position. You may need to go to an orthodontist for your braces. � �

What lifestyle changes are needed?


An impacted tooth is caused by your mouth and tooth development. You cannot avoid having an impacted tooth. � �

What drugs may be needed?


The dentist may order drugs to fight an infection or treat pain. You may also be told to take over-the-counter (OTC) drugs to: � �
  • Help with pain and swelling, like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). These are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).
  • Help with pain, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Will there be any other care needed?


  • Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day. Use a toothpaste with fluoride.
  • Use dental floss to clean between your teeth at least one time each day.
  • See your dentist for regular cleaning and checkups.

What problems could happen?


  • Infection around the impacted tooth or where the impacted tooth was treated
  • Pain that is not controlled by the drugs you are taking
  • Crooked bite
  • Plaque trapped between teeth and gums

Where can I learn more?


Academy of General Dentistry � �
http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=W&iid=340&aid=1366 � �
http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=w&iid=340&aid=4149 � �
American Dental Association � �
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/wisdom-teeth � �
KidsHealth � �
http://kidshealth.org/teen/expert/illness/impacted_teeth.html � �

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �

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