Impacted teeth refer to teeth that are prevented from properly erupting or emerging from the gums. This can occur when there is not enough room in the mouth for the tooth to come in properly, or when other teeth, jaw growth, or other physical obstructions block the tooth’s path.
Some common types of impacted teeth include:
Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the most frequently impacted teeth.
Canines, which are the sharp teeth located between the incisors and premolars.
Maxillary incisors, which are the upper front teeth.
Impacted teeth can cause a variety of problems, including pain, infection, swelling, and damage to adjacent teeth. In some cases, impacted teeth may also interfere with proper bite alignment. To treat impacted teeth, a dentist or oral surgeon may recommend extractions or orthodontic treatments to reposition the affected tooth or teeth.