Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can become impacted when they are trapped under the gums or bone, causing considerable pain.
When trapped, wisdom teeth can easily decay and may even damage surrounding teeth. As such, impacted wisdom teeth require extraction.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth are impacted?
Impacted Wisdom Teeth Often Cause Pain & Other Unpleasant Symptoms

Pain
You may experience severe pain in your teeth, gums, jaws, and even ears. This can occur due to pressure or infection.

Tenderness, Bleeding, & Swelling
Noticeably tender or swollen gums are a common symptom of impacted wisdom teeth. You may also experience some bleeding due to gum irritation.

Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste
An infection caused by an impacted wisdom tooth can create a foul smell or taste in your mouth.
Are there different types of wisdom tooth impaction?
A Wisdom Tooth Can Become Impacted in Several Ways

Partial Eruption

Horizontal

Angular

Vertical
Young Adults & Teens Face the Greatest Risk
What causes wisdom teeth to become impacted?
Certain Factors Prevent Wisdom Teeth from Erupting

Lack of Space
Since wisdom teeth are the last to grow in, many patients may not have enough room for wisdom teeth to grow in properly.

Abnormal Development
The eruption of teeth can be unpredictable. Some grow in at awkward angles. This can lead to them becoming trapped under the jaw or gums.
Are impacted wisdom teeth commonly removed?
Many Patients Need to Have Their Wisdom Teeth Removed

Are impacted wisdom teeth easy to diagnose?
Your Doctor Can Examine Your Bite
to Identify an Impacted Wisdom Tooth
