An impacted tooth is an adult tooth that has been blocked from erupting or breaking through the gums. Impacted teeth are usually caused by overcrowding in the mouth, and can affect both permanent and baby teeth. If left untreated, impacted teeth can lead to infection, pain, and damage to other adjacent teeth.
At Oral Facial and Implant Specialists, we have performed countless exposure procedures to help patients with impacted teeth. Our surgeons have the expertise to diagnose and effectively treat this common condition. If you are looking for help with impacted teeth in Deer Park or Barrington or searching for oral surgeon Deer Park, oral surgeon Barrington, or oral surgeon near me, we are here for you. Call us at (847) 381-0106 or complete the online booking form for a consultation.
Types of Impacted Teeth
Wisdom teeth typically emerge between ages 17-25 but can come in much later. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding in the mouth, resulting in pain and difficulty eating or chewing. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to problems such as infection, cysts, and damage to other nearby teeth.
Another common tooth to become impacted is the canine teeth, also known as cuspids or eye teeth. These are the sharp pointed teeth located just in front of the molars. Canine teeth generally erupt when a person is around 12-13 years old, but in some cases, the teeth are blocked from erupting. Canines are critical teeth in the dental arch and are important for biting and chewing food. They also have the longest root of any human teeth. If they are impacted, it can cause difficulty eating, pain, and infection.
As they are essential for oral health, treating an impacted canine becomes necessary to avoid further dental complications. It is worth noting that several factors, including genetics, overcrowding of teeth, or insufficient space in the jawbone can cause canine impaction.
When left untreated, an impacted canine can cause multiple dental problems, such as:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Affect facial aesthetics
- Cysts in the jaws
- Damage to adjacent teeth
Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and treat this condition early on.
Impacted Canine Treatment
Treating an impacted canine usually involves both an orthodontist and an oral surgeon who work together to bring the tooth into its proper position through surgical exposure or an orthodontic attachment. The treatment plan is tailored to each individual and depends on the severity of the case. In some cases, an impacted canine can be treated with a simple orthodontic device, while others may require more significant interventions, including oral surgery.
If the impacted canine is blocked by an over-retained baby tooth or extra tooth, it may be necessary to extract it to make space for the adult canine. If an orthodontic method such as bonding and bracketing is used, treatment time can range between 6-12 months and usually involves fitting the patient with braces or other devices that gently move the impacted teeth into their correct place.
If an oral surgeon is required to treat the impacted canine, the surgical procedure usually takes about 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the case. The surgery is generally performed under local anesthesia, and the surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth.
Bonding and Bracketing
Bonding and bracketing is an orthodontic treatment to move the impacted tooth into its correct position. The process involves attaching a dental bracket or band around the exposed canine, bonding it onto the tooth, and then using arch wires or other orthodontic devices to slowly move the tooth into its correct position. Your orthodontist will come up with a full orthodontic treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, including the use of brackets, wires, or other devices.
When a Canine Cannot Be Treated
In some cases, treating the impacted canine with conservative measures isn’t possible. In these cases, it may be necessary to have the tooth extracted to prevent any further dental complications. Other restorations such as bridges, crowns, and dental implants can also be used to replace the missing tooth.
After Surgery
After surgery, minor swelling and moderate pain are a normal part of the healing process and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. To manage the swelling, you may apply ice packs to the face for 20 minutes and rinse your mouth regularly with warm salt water. Bleeding is also expected and can be controlled by gently biting down on a gauze pad placed until the bleeding stops.
It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your dental professional, including avoiding hard or crunchy foods, brushing gently around the surgical area, and attending all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
Limit physical activity for 1-2 days and avoid smoking or using straws. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene during the healing process to prevent infection.
If the bracket on the tooth becomes detached, contact the oral surgeon if you can not see the tooth. If the tooth is visible, contact the orthodontist to re-attach the bracket.
If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, or any other complications after surgery, it is important to contact your surgeon immediately.
Summary
- An impacted tooth is an adult tooth that has been blocked from erupting or breaking through the gums.
- Wisdom teeth and cuspids are the most likely to become impacted.
- Treating impacted canines usually involves the help of an orthodontist and an oral surgeon.
- Surgery may be necessary to remove a baby tooth or extra tooth that is blocking the canine.
- Orthodontic treatment, such as bonding and bracketing or braces, may be used to move the teeth or bring them down.
- Sometimes an impacted canine cannot be treated and will need to be extracted.
Healthy Teeth and Smiles
Impacted teeth are not only a source of pain but can cause other oral health problems. Consult with your oral surgeon or orthodontist to learn how impacted teeth can be treated to maintain healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. Don’t let an impacted tooth keep you from enjoying your life. Take action now and preserve your beautiful smile.
If you are looking for help with impacted teeth in Deer Park or Barrington or are searching for oral surgeon Deer Park, oral surgeon Barrington, or oral surgeon near me, we are here for you. Call us at (847) 381-0106 or complete the online booking form for a consultation.
Call UsFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, canine teeth provide essential functionality to the mouth, and when left untreated an impacted canine can cause a variety of dental problems. It is important to consult with an oral surgeon or orthodontist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual case.
The amount of time needed for the treatment depends on the severity of your case but can range anywhere from 6-12 months when using an orthodontic device. If oral surgery is required to treat the impacted canine, the procedure usually takes about an hour.
The procedure itself is usually not painful and local anesthesia is applied to ensure the patient’s comfort. After surgery, minor swelling and pain are normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Your oral surgeon will provide further instructions on how to care for the area post-surgery.
Yes, impacted canines can cause headaches due to the pressure they put on the jaw and teeth. If left untreated, this pressure can lead to headaches and other oral health problems. Consulting with an experienced orthodontist or oral surgeon is the best way to address these issues.
The best way to determine if your canine is impacted is to consult with an experienced orthodontist or oral surgeon. They will be able to properly diagnose the issue and provide treatment options specifically tailored to your individual case.
