Understanding Impacted Teeth and Your Treatment Options at Pearlmax Oral Surgery
Impacted teeth can pose significant dental challenges, leading to discomfort and complications if left untreated. We have the expertise and technology at Pearlmax Oral Surgery in San Diego, CA, to effectively diagnose and treat impacted teeth. If you’re experiencing issues with an impacted tooth, this FAQ page will guide you through what impacted teeth are, their potential problems, and the treatment options available.
What Are Impacted Teeth?
Impacted teeth are teeth that fail to erupt fully through the gum line. This condition can occur for several reasons, including the presence of obstruction (such as a retained baby tooth) or insufficient space in the jaw to accommodate all teeth, commonly seen with wisdom teeth. When teeth are impacted, they may remain trapped beneath the gum line or emerge only partially, leading to various dental problems.
While impacted teeth might not cause immediate symptoms, they can lead to significant long-term issues. For instance, horizontally impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, causing pain and discomfort. Impaction can occur in different orientations, including:
- Angular Impaction: The tooth grows at an angle, often impacting neighboring teeth.
- Vertical Impaction: The tooth is blocked from erupting by adjacent teeth.
Regardless of the type of impaction, treatment is essential to prevent complications such as infection, decay, or damage to surrounding teeth.
What Are the Symptoms of Impacted Teeth?
Common symptoms of impacted teeth may include:
- Pain or discomfort in the affected area
- Swelling or redness around the gums
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing
- Tooth misalignment or shifting
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a dental professional for evaluation.
How Are Impacted Teeth Treated?
We recognize that treatment for impacted teeth is not one-size-fits-all. After a thorough examination, our oral surgeon will recommend the most suitable treatment options based on your specific situation. Here are the primary treatment methods:
Eruption Aids
For impacted canines, eruption aids may be an effective treatment option. This typically involves a two-step process:
- Minor Surgical Procedure: The trapped tooth is exposed through a small surgical incision in the gum.
- Braces and Chain Mechanism: A small ring is placed on the exposed tooth and connected to metal braces via a small chain. The tension on the chain gradually pulls the impacted tooth into its proper position within the dental arch.
This method is highly effective for aligning impacted teeth with the rest of your smile.
Surgical Extraction
In cases where an impacted tooth cannot be saved or there is insufficient space for it to grow properly, a surgical extraction may be necessary. Our skilled oral surgeon will perform this procedure to remove the impacted tooth and prevent further complications safely.
Why Choose Pearlmax Oral Surgery?
Choosing our office means opting for personalized care from experienced professionals. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools and surgical techniques to ensure your treatment is efficient and effective.
If you suspect you have an impacted tooth or are experiencing related symptoms, don’t wait for the situation to worsen. Contact Dr. German Trujillo and our team today at (858) 434-7554 to schedule your consultation. Our dedicated team will work with you to create a tailored treatment plan that meets your oral health needs and restores your smile!
