Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Eugene, OR
 In later adolescence, our third row of molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, erupt from the gum line and try to move into position. Their late arrival can cause problems for our other permanent teeth and our oral health due to a shortage of spacing. At Harmony Dental, we specialize in evaluating and then if necessary, extracting wisdom teeth to prevent or alleviate these potential problems.
Impacted is a term used to describe inadequate room for the tooth to position properly. Wisdom teeth being impacted is common. An impacted tooth can push nearby teeth and be a space for bacteria to hide undisturbed.
Problems Associated With Wisdom Teeth
Humans have evolved in multiple ways including the size of our jaw and the development of tools such as utensils. These evolutionary and societal changes means most people no longer need a set of third molars. For most, there simply isn’t enough room left in the jaw to accommodate wisdom teeth. This may result in several complications, including:
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Damage: Wisdom teeth that are lacking sufficient spacing can twist and come in angled, knocking nearby teeth out of alignment. This can lead to alignment problems that affect the jaw joint in addition to the bite.
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Decay: Wisdom teeth are subject to decay. This is due to crowding, the distance making it more difficult to brush and floss adequately, and being impacted meaning not fully ascended from the gum line.
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Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are at higher risk of gum disease. Along with decay, bacteria is able to thrive along and below the gum line around wisdom teeth. Plaque and debris is more difficult to remove and can hide in the bulked gum tissue from impaction.
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Impacted Teeth: An impacted tooth leaves a gap between the tooth and gum tissue, an ideal place for bacteria to settle and live undisturbed. Impacted teeth can be very damaging to your oral health. |
Different Types of Impaction
Soft tissue impaction occurs when a wisdom tooth remains completely covered by the gum tissue. Bone impaction occurs when a portion of the tooth remains stuck in the jawbone, even though some of the crowns may be showing through the gums. The most common symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth points to possible bacterial infection including:
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Tender or swollen gums
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Red or bleeding gums
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Pain or swelling in the jaw
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Persistent bad breath
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Difficulty opening or closing your jaw
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A persistent and unpleasant taste in your mouth |
Wisdom Teeth Removal
The extraction of impacted wisdom teeth typically takes place during a single appointment following a consult. We begin with steps to help the patient be more comfortable. This includes a local anesthetic to numb the area and eliminate pain. We also offer options of conscious sedation to provide a more comfortable experience.
With the patient comfortable and properly prepared, we can begin the procedure. During a surgical extraction, we typically make several incisions in the gums to expose the teeth and supporting bone. The number of incisions we make depends on the number of wisdom teeth present. Many people are born with four teeth, though some may have less.
After we expose the tooth and underlying bone, we can begin the removal process. In many cases, we will break or quarter the tooth into several pieces, which makes it easier to remove. We may also need to remove a portion of the surrounding bone.
Once the teeth are out, we suture the incisions and pack the area with gauze. This will help to reduce the amount of bleeding and expedite the healing process. Depending on the type of sedation you choose, you may want to arrange a ride home following your procedure. Post surgery can be quite uncomfortable.
Dr. Yakligian, or a member of our team, will provide you with a set of post-operative instructions. Some discomfort over the next 48 hours is expected. Be sure to follow our instructions closely to reduce your risk of postoperative complications. If you experience excessive swelling, bleeding, or pain after the first few days, seek immediate medical attention and call us as soon as possible.
Schedule A Consultation Appointment
If you have impacted wisdom teeth, you may need multiple tooth extractions. Call (541) 246-3250 to schedule your consultation appointment today!
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