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How Oral Surgeons Remove Impacted Teeth

Posted on 12/16/2024 by Kian Djawdan DMD

3D rendered xray of an impacted wisdom tooth (highlighted in red) butting against the tooth next to it

Have you or someone you know experienced pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth? It could be caused by an impacted tooth. This common dental issue occurs when a tooth, usually a wisdom tooth, is unable to erupt properly and remains stuck under the gum line or bone. Impacted teeth can cause various problems, including pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth.

In this article, we will explore the process of removing impacted teeth by oral surgeons. We will discuss the different types of impacted teeth, the reasons for their removal, and the steps involved in the surgical procedure.

What are Impacted Teeth?

An impacted tooth is a tooth that is unable to erupt fully through the gums. This can happen because there isn't enough space in the jaw for the tooth to erupt normally, or because the tooth is blocked by another tooth or bone. Impacted teeth can occur in any area of the mouth, but they are most common in the back of the mouth, where the wisdom teeth are located.

Why Remove Impacted Teeth?

While impacted teeth may not always cause problems, they can lead to several complications if left untreated. These complications include:

•	Pain: The pressure of an impacted tooth can cause pain in the jaw, ear, and head.
•	Infection: Impacted teeth can trap food and bacteria, which can lead to infection.
•	Damage to neighboring teeth: The pressure of an impacted tooth can damage the roots of nearby teeth.
•	Cyst formation: A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form around an impacted tooth. Cysts can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

How Oral Surgeons Remove Impacted Teeth

Removing an impacted tooth is a surgical procedure performed by an oral surgeon. The specific steps involved in the procedure will vary depending on the location and severity of the impaction. However, the general steps are as follows:

1~	Consultation and X-rays: The oral surgeon will first consult with you to discuss your medical history and the reasons for removing the impacted tooth. They will also take X-rays to determine the location and position of the impacted tooth.
2~	Anesthesia: The oral surgeon will administer anesthesia to numb the area around the impacted tooth and ensure your comfort during the procedure.
3~	Incision and extraction: The oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth. They will then remove the tooth using specialized instruments. In some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
4~	Closure: Once the tooth is extracted, the oral surgeon will clean the area and close the incision with sutures.

Recovery and Aftercare

After the procedure, you can expect some swelling and discomfort. The oral surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to manage your pain and promote healing. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.

Conclusion

Removing impacted teeth is a common surgical procedure that can help prevent complications and improve oral health. If you are experiencing pain or other symptoms related to an impacted tooth, it is important to see an oral surgeon for evaluation and treatment.

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Djawdan Center for Implant and Restorative Dentistry, 133 Defense Highway STE 210, Annapolis, MD 21401, (443) 569-8764, smileannapolis.com, 1/7/2025, Related Phrases: Dental Implants Annapolis MD,