Wholly or partially trapped teeth behind the gums are called impacted teeth. Wisdom teeth (along with canine teeth) are more likely to become impacted than any other teeth. While the reason a tooth becomes impacted is not always clear, the fact that wisdom teeth are so large can be a contributing factor. Because your wisdom teeth are the last to grow in, there may not be enough room for them to erupt fully. In other cases, tumors or other unusual growths can block the growth track of your wisdom teeth.
Whatever the cause of your impacted wisdom teeth, it’s important to have them removed as soon as possible. Partially impacted teeth create space for bacteria and germs to accumulate beneath the gum tissue, which can cause infections, cysts, and even tumors in the gum and bone tissue. If you think you may have wisdom teeth that need removal, contact our office in Henderson, NV, for more information.
Wisdom Teeth Complications
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause many complications, including the following:
- Damage to adjacent teeth
- Infections
- Cysts and tumors
- Bone damage
Preventing Impaction
The best way to prevent impaction and other wisdom teeth complications is to have regular dental exams throughout your life, especially when the wisdom teeth are still developing during the mid-teen years. Having your teeth checked before they begin to emerge through the gums can allow your dentist or oral surgeon to determine whether your wisdom teeth pose a risk to your oral health. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your back teeth every day can also help prevent dental infections to some extent, but in cases of impacted teeth, it can be tough or even impossible to clean the pockets between the gums and back teeth.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal at Henderson Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center
If you are experiencing complications with your wisdom teeth, our oral surgeon can help. We offer wisdom teeth extractions for patients in Las Vegas, NV, and the surrounding areas. Contact our office in Henderson, NV, today to schedule a consultation.
