Impacted teeth are those that develop within the gums but, for various reasons, cannot erupt through the gum line. The most common example of an impacted tooth is wisdom teeth, which many of us are familiar with. Due to the small size of the jaw, many people require surgery to remove impacted wisdom teeth. Let’s explore the types of impacted wisdom teeth.
Which Teeth Can Become Impacted?
Three types of teeth are most likely to become impacted. First, wisdom teeth, followed by canines and premolars, have the potential to become impacted.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to emerge, usually in adulthood. Most people have four wisdom teeth located at the very back of the mouth. These teeth typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. When there is insufficient space in the jaw, impacted wisdom teeth form. Sometimes, the wisdom tooth cannot erupt because it is blocked by neighboring teeth, leaving no room for its emergence.
- Impacted Canine Teeth: Canine teeth in the upper jaw are the most commonly impacted among canines. These are sturdy teeth with long roots, and they typically erupt by the age of 13, making them some of the last teeth to emerge in the front of the mouth.
- Impacted Premolars: Premolars are another type of tooth that can become impacted. Like impacted canines, these are identifiable at an early age and can be brought into their proper position with orthodontics and surgery.
How Can Impacted Teeth Be Detected?
From the age of seven, it’s possible to assess the position of the teeth. By taking an X-ray, any impacted teeth can be identified. Since canines should erupt by the age of 13, if there is a delay in your child’s teeth eruption at this age, it is important to see a dentist for extraction of the impacted teeth. Wisdom teeth can also be diagnosed for impaction after the age of 17.
Can Impacted Teeth Be Treated with Orthodontics?
Impacted teeth, particularly impacted canines, can often be treated with a combination of surgery and orthodontics. First, space must be created in the dental arch through orthodontic treatment, allowing room for the impacted tooth to emerge. Braces help create this space, and once sufficient room is made, surgery is performed to expose the tooth. A small bracket is then attached to the impacted tooth, and a golden chain known as an archwire is used to guide the tooth into its correct position over time.
While this method can be used for various types of impacted teeth, it is most effective for canines due to their long roots and high resistance. It is more challenging to apply this method to molars and wisdom teeth.
How Long Does It Take for an Impacted Tooth to Reach Its Correct Position?
Since teeth generally move at a rate of 1 to 2 millimeters per month, it usually takes over a year for an impacted tooth to fully settle into its proper position.
Why Should Impacted Teeth Be Removed Immediately?
Impacted teeth should either be aligned through orthodontics or removed surgically, depending on their position. If left untreated, impacted teeth can lead to infections, cysts, tumors, or even fractures in the jawbone. Immediate removal is necessary to prevent such complications. Additionally, it is advisable to remove these teeth at a younger age, as older adults are more susceptible to conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and decreased bone density, which can complicate healing and recovery.