Impacted Tooth
An Impacted Tooth May Require Surgery to Remove
If there isn't enough room in the dental arch to accommodate a tooth's growth, that tooth can become impacted. It stays trapped partly or fully beneath the gums or jawbone instead of coming in normally. Impacted teeth are most common with wisdom teeth, but other teeth can be affected too. In some cases, surgery is required to remove the tooth.
Why Impacted Teeth Cause Problems
An impacted tooth isn't always painful at first, but it can lead to problems over time:
- Pain and swelling in the gums and jaw around the trapped tooth
- Infection. A partially erupted tooth creates a pocket where food and bacteria collect
- Damage to neighboring teeth. An impacted tooth can push against the tooth next to it
- Crowding that can shift other teeth out of alignment
- Decay in a tooth that is hard to reach with a toothbrush
Younger patients are more likely to have impacted teeth. Adolescents and teens often have impacted wisdom teeth removed before or during orthodontic treatment.
How We Diagnose an Impacted Tooth
Because an impacted tooth is hidden, our dentist relies on imaging to see it. Apopka Smiles uses digital X-rays and Panorex imaging, which captures complete views of the upper and lower jaws, teeth, temporomandibular joints and sinuses. These images show the tooth's position, its roots and how close it is to nearby teeth and nerves, so our dentist can plan the safest removal.
What to Expect During Removal
Your dentist will explain the procedure and the type of anesthesia beforehand. If you'll receive anesthesia, review our Before Anesthesia instructions, including fasting for at least 8 hours and arranging a ride home. When more than one tooth is removed, see our Multiple Tooth Extractions page for what to expect.
Recovery After Impacted Tooth Removal
A patient may experience mild discomfort and swelling after an impacted tooth is extracted. To help you heal:
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to relieve discomfort and swelling.
- If our dentist prescribes pain medication, take it exactly as directed.
- Avoid chewing on the side of the extraction for 2 to 3 days to encourage faster healing.
- Follow the steps on our Surgical Instructions and Post-Operative Instructions pages.
If swelling or pain gets worse after the first few days, or you have bleeding that won't stop, call our office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every impacted tooth need to be removed?
Not always. Our dentist will evaluate the tooth with an exam and imaging and recommend removal when it is causing, or is likely to cause, problems.
How long does it take to recover?
Most patients have mild discomfort and swelling for a few days. Avoid chewing on the extraction side for 2 to 3 days.
Will I need someone to drive me home?
If you receive anesthesia, yes. You must be accompanied by an adult who will drive you home.
Think you have an impacted tooth? Call Apopka Smiles at 407-788-6888 to schedule an evaluation.
