Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to grow in your mouth. They are also called third molars. While some people experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, many find that these molars become impacted. So, what is an impacted wisdom tooth?
This article will discuss impacted wisdom teeth, the signs to look for, possible problems, and how they can be managed. Knowing more about this can help you make the best choices for healthy teeth and a beautiful smile.
What Is An Impacted Wisdom Tooth?
Most people develop their last molar in their late teens or early twenties. However, in some cases, wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly, leading to what is known as an impacted wisdom tooth. This means the tooth is trapped under the gum or against other teeth, which can sometimes cause discomfort and other dental concerns.
Types Of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Fully Impacted Wisdom Teeth
A fully impacted wisdom tooth stays completely under the gum. It never comes through. Sometimes, this doesn’t cause problems, but other times, it can push on nearby teeth or grow in the wrong direction.
Partially Impacted Wisdom Teeth
A partially impacted wisdom tooth comes through a little but is still partly covered by the gum. This makes it harder to clean, which can lead to tooth decay or gum disease.
Soft Tissue Impaction
A soft tissue impaction happens when the wisdom tooth has broken through the jawbone but is still covered by gum. Since it’s partly hidden, food and bacteria can get trapped, making it harder to clean.
Hard Tissue Impaction
A hard tissue impaction means the wisdom tooth is stuck in the jawbone and cannot come through. If it causes pain or problems, a dentist may suggest removing it.
Symptoms Of An Impacted Wisdom Tooth
While some people experience no symptoms, others may notice:
- Pain or discomfort at the back of the mouth
- Swollen or tender gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Headaches or earaches
- Visible swelling around the jaw
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted?
Wisdom teeth often become impacted due to a lack of space in the jaw. Some common reasons include:
- Natural crowding of other teeth
- Abnormal tooth growth angles
- The jaw being too small to accommodate more molars
- Genetic factors influencing tooth development
Potential Complications Of An Impacted Wisdom Tooth
If an impacted wisdom tooth is not handled, it can cause problems in your mouth. Here are some things that might happen:
Tooth Decay
A partially impacted wisdom tooth is much harder to clean. Food and bacteria can get stuck around it, which can lead to tooth decay.
Gum Disease
Bacteria can build up around an impacted wisdom tooth, which may cause an infection in the gums. Over time, this can lead to gum disease.
Cysts And Tumours
Sometimes, a fluid-filled cyst can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. This can damage nearby bone and tissue.
Crowding And Misalignment
An impacted wisdom tooth can press against your other teeth, making them shift out of place. This may lead to crowding or misalignment, which could need orthodontic treatment.
Infection And Pain
If a wisdom tooth is trapped under the gums, it can sometimes cause infection, swelling, and pain. In some cases, this can lead to an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that may need treatment.
Wisdom Tooth Removal (Extraction)
- Anaesthesia: The dentist will use local anaesthesia to ensure your comfort.
- Surgical Extraction: If the wisdom tooth is deep under the gum, the dentist may need to make a small cut to remove it.
- Stitches And Healing: After the tooth is taken out, stitches may be needed to help the gum heal, which typically takes a few days.
Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Surgery
After getting your wisdom tooth removed, it’s important to take care of yourself. Here are some things to remember:
- Rest: Take it easy and avoid heavy activities for at least 24 hours to help your body heal.
- Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like yoghurt, soup, and mashed potatoes. These are gentle on your mouth as it heals.
- Oral Hygiene: You can gently rinse with salt water to keep your mouth clean, but be careful not to brush too hard near where the tooth was removed.
- Pain Management: Your dentist will tell you what medicine to take for pain. Follow their advice to stay comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to remove an impacted wisdom tooth?
Not always. If the impacted wisdom tooth isn’t causing pain or bothering you, your dentist may suggest keeping it and checking on it occasionally.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
You should start feeling better within 7–10 days, but your mouth might take a little longer to fully heal.
Can an impacted wisdom tooth cause headaches?
Yes, sometimes, the pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth can cause headaches or jaw pain.
Conclusion
If you think you have an impacted wisdom tooth, you’ve come to the right place! Call Available Dental Care today at (02) 4062 8763 or (02) 4628 0573 to book your appointment. We’re here in Campbelltown to help you smile with confidence!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Sources
Brazier Y. What To Know About Impacted Wisdom Teeth [Internet]. Medical News Today. 2023 [cited 2025 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/188660
Sample J. Your Guide to Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery [Internet]. GoodRx. 2022 [cited 2025 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/dental-care/wisdom-teeth-removal-recovery
Burch K. How To Know If You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed [Internet]. Business Insider. 2021 [cited 2025 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/dental/wisdom-teeth-removal
McPhillips A. Wisdom Teeth Removal: What Adults Should Expect [Internet]. WebMD. 2024 [cited 2025 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/wisdom-teeth-adult