Short Description
A tooth that fails to fully erupt due to lack of space, misalignment, or obstruction, often requiring extraction or orthodontic treatment.
Long Description
An impacted tooth is one that remains partially or fully trapped beneath the gum or bone, unable to emerge into its proper position. This often occurs with wisdom teeth due to lack of space in the jaw, but other teeth, such as canines, can also become impacted.
Impacted teeth may cause pain, swelling, infection, or pressure on surrounding teeth, potentially leading to misalignment. Some impacted teeth remain asymptomatic and may not require removal, while others can lead to cyst formation or damage to nearby teeth and require intervention.
Treatment options depend on the severity of the impaction. Wisdom teeth are often surgically removed, while impacted canines may be guided into place with orthodontic treatment. Regular dental X-rays help monitor tooth development and detect potential impactions early.