Impacted Teeth
Impacted teeth, often canines or wisdom teeth, are teeth that remain trapped beneath the gums or jawbone, unable to fully emerge. Without treatment, they can lead to complications such as infections, jaw pain, or crowding of nearby teeth. Our specialized team provides personalized care to diagnose and treat impacted teeth, promoting long-term oral health and comfort.
Learn About Impacted Teeth
Teeth that are unable to fully emerge due to being trapped in the jawbone, blocked by other teeth, or embedded in dense gum tissue are called “impacted teeth.” They can be either partially or fully impacted, potentially causing oral health issues if the gums around them become infected or nearby teeth are affected. Since each tooth contributes to overall mouth function, treating impacted teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health. Dr. Stanley Matthews is skilled in diagnosing and treating impacted teeth to prevent potential complications.
Early Diagnosis Is Key
The most common impacted teeth are canines and wisdom teeth, making early diagnosis crucial for effective treatment. Dental x-rays around age seven can help assess tooth size and position, allowing for early monitoring of tooth eruption. Regular x-rays are also recommended to track the development of wisdom teeth, which usually emerge between ages 17 and 25. Left untreated, impacted teeth can fuse permanently by age 40, potentially leading to further oral health issues. Early extraction is recommended to prevent such complications.
Untreated impacted teeth may cause several issues, including:
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Damage to surrounding teeth
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Jaw pain or tenderness
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Redness or swelling of gums
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Chronic headaches
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Bad breath (halitosis)
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Gum infection
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Tooth or gum abscess
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Tooth crowding
Advanced Skill and Expertise
Choosing to treat impacted teeth is as important as selecting the right specialist for the procedure. Dr. Stanley Matthews collaborates closely with your general dentist and orthodontist to create a treatment plan tailored to support your long-term oral health. When extraction is necessary, you can trust in our doctors' advanced skills and expertise. For those feeling anxious about the procedure, we also offer sedation options to ensure your comfort.
You're in Good Care
At Mattydale Oral Surgery, we’re committed to providing the best options and comprehensive care for you and your family. If you need assistance selecting a dental plan, our Insurance Specialist Team is here to help. Call us today to schedule your appointment—we look forward to serving you!
Extremely polite dentist. Very professional chair-side manner. Dr. Matthews makes his patients feel comfortable and at ease. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Anonymous
Past Patient