Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually emerge in the late teens or early twenties — the final set of adult teeth to appear. For some people, they erupt smoothly without issue. For others, however, there’s not enough space in the mouth for these teeth to come through properly. When this happens, they can become impacted, meaning they grow at an angle or remain trapped under the gum or bone. This can lead to pain, swelling, and even infection if left untreated. Many people experiencing this discomfort also wonder, how long does wisdom tooth pain last?
Understanding Impaction
Impaction occurs when a wisdom tooth cannot fully erupt through the gums. This might be due to a lack of jaw space, the tooth’s angle, or interference from neighbouring teeth. Because wisdom teeth are the last to appear, the surrounding teeth have often already settled firmly in place, leaving minimal room for new arrivals.
As a result, an impacted wisdom tooth may press against adjacent teeth, cause gum irritation, or remain partially covered by tissue, creating pockets where bacteria can accumulate. These conditions make proper cleaning difficult and increase the risk of decay and infection.
The Types of Impaction
Not all impactions are the same. Dentists typically classify impacted wisdom teeth into three main types based on how much of the tooth is visible and its position within the bone and gum tissue.
Soft Tissue Impaction
In a soft tissue impaction, the wisdom tooth has broken through the bone but hasn’t fully emerged through the gum. A flap of gum tissue still covers part of the tooth, which can trap food particles and bacteria. This often leads to inflammation, tenderness, and infection in the surrounding area, known as pericoronitis.
Partial Bony Impaction
A partial bony impaction occurs when part of the wisdom tooth remains embedded in the jawbone, while another part has erupted. Because it’s only partially visible, it can be challenging to clean properly, leading to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, the uneven pressure caused by this partial eruption can lead to discomfort and jaw stiffness.
Complete Bony Impaction
The most severe form, a complete bony impaction, means the wisdom tooth is entirely encased in the jawbone and does not break through the gum line at all. This type of impaction can cause significant pressure, pain, or even cyst formation around the tooth if not managed appropriately. In some cases, surgical removal may be required to prevent long-term complications.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted?
The primary reason wisdom teeth become impacted is insufficient space in the mouth. Over time, human jaws have evolved to be smaller, yet our teeth still develop in the same pattern as our ancestors who required larger jaws for a coarse diet. Other factors that contribute to impaction include:
• Tooth angle: Wisdom teeth often grow at an awkward angle — sideways, tilted, or even backwards — preventing them from erupting properly.
• Genetics: If one or both parents had impacted wisdom teeth, there’s a higher likelihood their children will experience the same issue.
• Delayed eruption: When wisdom teeth take longer to emerge, the surrounding bone and gums may harden, making it more difficult for them to break through.
• Obstruction from other teeth: Neighbouring molars can physically block the path of eruption, forcing the wisdom tooth to remain trapped.
When to See a Dentist
It’s not uncommon for impacted wisdom teeth to go unnoticed for years, as some people experience little to no discomfort. However, symptoms like persistent pain, jaw stiffness, swollen gums, or difficulty chewing often signal an underlying issue that requires professional attention. Regular dental X-rays can help identify impaction early, allowing your dentist to monitor their development and recommend treatment before more serious complications occur.
Final Thoughts
Impacted wisdom teeth are a common dental issue, often caused by limited jaw space, unfavourable tooth angles, or genetic factors. While some cases remain symptom-free, others can lead to significant pain and infection if left untreated. Understanding the different types of impaction and their causes can help you recognise when it’s time to seek dental advice and take proactive steps to protect your oral health.
Isreal olabanji a dental assistant and public health professionals and has years of experience in assisting the dentist with all sorts of dental issues.
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