Most people have insufficient space in their jaw to allow wisdom teeth to grow into a correct position. When a tooth– or, in this case, a back molar– doesn’t have enough room to emerge from the gum line, it can become impacted. Some 90 percent of people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. Sometimes, these impacted teeth can damage adjacent bone, develop painful, fluid-filled sacs, or even become infected.
Solutions for impacted wisdom teeth in Yardley
If you have been told or suspect that you have an impacted wisdom tooth, do not worry! This is one of the most common conditions that we treat at our practice.
At Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery, our highly trained staff is committed to making your visit to our Yardley-area office as comfortable as possible. From our friendly administrative team to our compassionate oral surgeons and surgical assistants, we continuously strive to offer our patients exceptional service.
Our skilled oral surgeons are equipped to handle the most complex cases of impacted wisdom teeth in Yardley, PA, so you can rest assured you are in capable hands.
Symptoms that your wisdom teeth are impacted
Wisdom teeth that have partially erupted at odd angles or are trapped beneath the gum line create a hospitable environment for harmful bacteria. Left untreated, these impacted molars can begin to decay.
If an impacted wisdom tooth becomes infected or gets a cavity, you may experience:
- Red and inflamed gums
- Pain at the site
- Bleeding caused by gum irritation
- Swelling around the jaw
- An unpleasant taste
- Generalized jaw pain
- Bad breath
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Headaches
Who is at the highest risk for impaction?
Most people are between the ages of 17 and 25 when their wisdom teeth emerge. If you’re in your late teens or early 20’s and have noticed signs that could indicate impaction, it’s important to take action. Our office is convenient to Yardley residents who need a thorough dental evaluation. Keep in mind that some cases of wisdom tooth impaction have no symptoms at all.
If it’s been more than 6 months since your last dental check-up or you are noticing some unusual tenderness in the back of your jaw, it’s best to arrange an appointment with a member of our team. Impacted wisdom teeth are easily diagnosed with a combination of a visual exam, X-rays, and 3-D imaging technology.
Complications resulting from impacted teeth
Wisdom tooth removal can help patients avoid problems associated with impacted teeth:
- Chronic pain – tenderness, swelling and difficulty opening your mouth
- Pericoronitis – a serious infection of the overlying gum tissue
- Cysts – wisdom teeth may develop fluid-filled cysts that are painful and can damage the jawbone
- Decay – since food particles are easily trapped there is a higher risk of tooth decay and cavities
- Damage to adjacent teeth – impacted wisdom teeth that grow in at odd angles can put pressure on surrounding teeth, potentially damaging their roots. It can also shift the neighboring teeth out of proper alignment.
Impacted wisdom teeth removal in Yardley
If your wisdom teeth are painful and causing problems, reach out to the Yardley dental team at Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery. It’s important to schedule an appointment at the first sign of impaction to help diminish the chance of long-term complications. Our doctors can quickly identify the source of your discomfort and recommend a customized treatment plan to relieve symptoms and improve oral health.