110 How Serious is an Impacted Tooth_
How Serious is an Impacted Tooth?
An impacted tooth does not erupt properly in the mouth. It can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of space in the jaw, an abnormal growth of bone or gum tissue, or a misalignment.
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the four molars that are located at the back of the mouth. Wisdom teeth are the most common teeth that become impacted. However, any tooth my erupt improperly and lead to impaction.
In most cases, impacted teeth do not cause any problems. However, there are some serious complications that can occur if an impacted tooth is not treated.
Complications Associated with Impacted Teeth
Infection: An impacted tooth can become infected, which can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the bone or other parts of the body.
Damage to other teeth: An impacted tooth can push against other teeth, causing them to become crooked or displaced. This can lead to difficulty chewing and speaking.
Cyst: A cyst is a sac of fluid that can form around an impacted tooth. Cysts can damage the jawbone and teeth, and they can also spread to other parts of the body.
Nerve damage: In rare cases, an impacted tooth can damage a nerve in the jaw. This can cause numbness or tingling in the face or tongue.
Treatment for an Impacted Tooth
The best way to treat an impacted tooth is to have it removed by a dentist or oral surgeon. The type of surgery that is performed will depend on the location and severity of the impaction.
In some cases, it may be possible to remove the tooth using minimally invasive surgery. This involves making a small incision in the gum tissue and removing the tooth with special instruments.
In other cases, it may be necessary to perform more extensive surgery. This may involve cutting away bone or gum tissue to remove the tooth.
Aftercare
After an impacted tooth is removed, it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for care. This may include taking antibiotics to prevent infection, using pain medication, and avoiding strenuous activity.
Most people make a full recovery after having an impacted tooth removed. However, it is important to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to prevent any further problems.
Can I Live with an Impacted Tooth?
In some cases, it is possible to live with an impacted tooth without any problems. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and to have the tooth regularly monitored by your dentist.
If you have an impacted tooth that has
1. Redness
2. Swelling
3. Irritation
4. Is Warm to the touch
5. Has pain along the gums or in the roots of the tooth
6. Discharge, like pus or blood
it is important to have it removed as soon as possible to prevent serious complications.
If you are concerned about an impacted tooth, please schedule an appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon for a consultation. They can assess your individual situation and recommend the best course of treatment.