- What Are Impacted Teeth?
- How Are Impacted Teeth Treated?
- What Are the Benefits of Treating Impacted Teeth?
- North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates Reviews
- Am I A Candidate For Treating Impacted Teeth?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Protect Your Smile Against Tooth Impaction
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
- Related Posts
What Are Impacted Teeth?
Impacted teeth occur when a tooth is "stuck" and unable to fully erupt into its proper position in the mouth. The most commonly impacted teeth are the third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, which can get trapped in the back of the jaw and cause infections or other complications. While wisdom teeth are often extracted due to their lack of functional need, the second most commonly impacted tooth is the maxillary cuspid (upper eyetooth). This tooth plays a crucial role in the bite, guiding the alignment of the other teeth. Impacted cuspid teeth, which are often located on the palatal side of the dental arch, may require specialized techniques to help them erupt properly. At North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, we provide expert care for impacted teeth and offer treatments to help bring these teeth into their correct positions. With locations in Corinth, Southaven, Tupelo, and Oxford, MS, we are here to help you address impacted teeth and restore your dental health.
How Are Impacted Teeth Treated?
Impacted teeth are typically treated through a collaborative approach between an orthodontist and an oral surgeon. When an eyetooth, or maxillary cuspid, is impacted and unable to erupt on its own, the process often begins with the orthodontist placing braces on the upper arch to create space for the impacted tooth. If the baby eyetooth is still present, it is usually left in place until the space is prepared for the adult tooth. Once the space is ready, one of our oral surgeons will perform a simple procedure to expose the impacted tooth by lifting the gum tissue and, if necessary, remove the baby tooth. After the tooth is exposed, a small orthodontic bracket is bonded to it, with a gold chain attached to guide the tooth into place. A rubber band will be used to apply a gentle force to help the tooth erupt into the proper position, a process that may take up to a year. For more complex cases, such as when both upper cuspids are impacted, both teeth may be exposed and bracketed in one procedure. Early identification and treatment of impacted teeth can lead to a smoother process, and in some cases, the oral surgeon may expose the impacted tooth before braces are applied, which can reduce the time spent in braces.
What Are the Benefits of Treating Impacted Teeth?
Treating impacted teeth offers several important benefits for your oral health, functionality, and overall well-being:
- Prevents pain and infection: Proper treatment reduces the risk of infections, swelling, and discomfort caused by impacted teeth
- Protects surrounding teeth: Treating impacted teeth prevents damage to adjacent teeth, such as cavities or alignment issues
- Improves bite functionality: Addressing impacted teeth restores proper function and ensures a balanced bite
- Enhances aesthetics: Treatment improves the appearance of your smile by aligning teeth correctly
- Supports long-term oral health: Early intervention reduces complications and promotes healthier gums and teeth
North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates Reviews
My experience was very good. I appreciate the knowledge, understanding and concern staff shows
I had a great experience with this dentist office. My son had to get his wisdom teeth out. I was a little nervous at first for getting all four of them out but the staff here were very friendly and helpful. They explained step by step and they made sure I understand everything. I’m grateful that I brought my son here. So now I’m thinking I need to get two of my teeth removed at this office. This dentist is highly recommended.
Everyone was caring and very nice.
Dr Bauer and his staff are amazing! I highly recommend this place for oral extraction. I have had to have it twice and both times I have come out of it without pain and easy heal with no problems.
Everything went well and they were very quick to get out and back home.
919
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Am I A Candidate For Treating Impacted Teeth?
Anyone with a tooth that has failed to erupt may be a candidate for treatment. This is particularly common with wisdom teeth. Candidacy is ultimately determined during a comprehensive consultation with our oral and maxillofacial surgeons. During this appointment, we will conduct a thorough oral examination and take specialized images to evaluate the exact position of the impacted tooth. Based on these findings, we will discuss whether intervention is necessary and outline the most effective treatment options for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't treat an impacted tooth?
If left untreated, an impacted tooth can lead to complications such as pain, infections, cysts, damage to adjacent teeth, and alignment issues. Over time, these problems can worsen and affect your overall oral health, making treatment more complex and potentially more invasive. Early intervention is key to preventing these issues in Tupelo, Southaven, or Corinth, MS.
Can an impacted tooth be saved without surgery?
In some cases, an impacted tooth may correct itself if the space in the mouth allows for natural eruption. However, this is rare, especially for wisdom teeth. Most often, surgical intervention is needed to guide the tooth into the correct position. Consulting with a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon can help determine the best treatment options based on your condition.
Is it painful to treat an impacted tooth?
The treatment process for an impacted tooth is typically done with local anesthesia or a form of sedation so patients can remain comfortable throughout the procedure. While some mild discomfort is expected during recovery, pain can be managed with prescribed medications and proper aftercare. North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates prioritizes your comfort at every step.
Protect Your Smile Against Tooth Impaction
If you or a loved one is experiencing issues with impacted teeth, don't wait to seek professional care. North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates specializes in diagnosing and treating impacted teeth to restore your comfort and oral health. Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons are here to provide personalized solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us in Tupelo, Southaven, or Corinth, MS to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!