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A sideways wisdom tooth, also called a horizontal impaction, is one of the most common, and most painful reasons patients visit oral surgeons. When a third molar grows sideways, it presses against the neighboring teeth, causing swelling, gum infection, and discomfort that can only be fixed with professional care.
Our experienced oral surgeons, Dr. Stephen Martin, DMD and Dr. J. Travis Thompson, DDS, specialize in the surgical removal of impacted wisdom teeth.
Table of Contents
- The Trouble With Sideways Wisdom Teeth
- How Wisdom Teeth End Up Impacted
- How Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
- Wisdom Tooth Removal in Deer Park, IL
- FAQs
The Trouble With Sideways Wisdom Teeth
A healthy third molar erupts straight through the gum. A sideways or horizontal one grows at a 90-degree angle inside the jawbone. Instead of breaking through the gum, it pushes into the molar beside it and stays trapped beneath the gum tissue. This pressure can damage the surrounding teeth and disrupt the dental arch.
Symptoms You Might Notice
An impacted wisdom tooth can remain hidden under the gums, but symptoms usually develop over time. You might notice:
- Persistent jaw pain or pressure behind the last molar
- Swelling or tenderness near the back gums
- Headaches or stiffness when chewing
- Bad taste or odor from trapped food particles and bacteria
- Shifting or crowding in nearby teeth
If these signs appear, schedule a consultation for a detailed exam and X-rays to determine whether removal is needed.
How Wisdom Teeth End Up Impacted
Wisdom teeth are the last to erupt, and by the time they start to come in, most of the space in your jaw is already taken. Without enough room to grow upright, they can turn sideways or become trapped beneath the gum. The result is pressure, inflammation, and potential damage to nearby teeth.
What Happens If an Impacted Tooth Is Left Untreated
Leaving an impacted wisdom tooth untreated can cause several oral health problems:
- Infection: Bacteria build up around the partially erupted tooth, leading to gum disease or abscesses.
- Bone or nerve damage: Deep impaction can affect the jawbone or nearby nerves.
- Decay and dental cysts: Food and plaque collect where you cannot clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay or cyst formation.
- Crowding or shifting: Pressure can move your teeth out of alignment.
- Gum infection: The area is hard to clean, which increases inflammation and discomfort.
How Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
When performed at Oral Facial & Implant Specialists, wisdom tooth removal is a precise surgical procedure designed to protect the surrounding bone and tissue. Our oral surgeons use advanced imaging and techniques to plan each step before beginning.
We offer several sedation options to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia.
Once the area is numb or sedation has taken effect, we:
- Create a small opening in the gum to access the tooth.
- Remove a thin layer of bone if needed for better visibility.
- Section the tooth into smaller pieces for controlled removal.
Choosing an experienced oral surgeon is especially important when a tooth is impacted, as it ensures safer treatment and supports a smoother recovery.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery time varies for each patient, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the body’s natural healing process. Mild swelling and soreness are normal. Follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully:
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Eat soft foods such as yogurt, soup, or scrambled eggs.
- Avoid straws to protect the blood clot.
- Maintain gentle oral hygiene around the surgical site.
Proper care helps prevent complications such as dry socket or infection and ensures faster healing.
Wisdom Tooth Removal in Deer Park, IL
At Oral Facial & Implant Specialists, our surgeons provide precise, patient-focused care for even the most complex wisdom tooth extractions. Whether your tooth is partially erupted or fully impacted, we use advanced imaging, proven surgical techniques, and customized sedation options to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
To book a consultation at our oral surgeons office in Deer Park, IL, call (847) 381-0106 or visit us at 21660 W. Field Parkway, Suite 220, Deer Park, IL.
FAQs
In most cases, yes. A sideways wisdom tooth cannot erupt normally and can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, or bone loss.
A horizontal impaction is the most severe form because the tooth grows directly into the neighboring teeth. It often causes jaw pain, infection, or bone damage if not treated promptly.
If you are looking for expert oral surgery in the Deer Park or Barrington area, contact Oral Facial & Implant Specialists. Our oral surgeons provide advanced imaging, sedation options, and safe removal of impacted wisdom teeth. Call (847) 381-0106 to book an appointment.
