Wisdom Teeth Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Impaction of the third molar is a condition when the third wisdom tooth (molar) doesn’t have enough space to grow out or develop normally. The most commonly impacted teeth are the mandibular third molars and maxillary third molars.
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to grow in the late teens and early twenties. There are four wisdom teeth, namely two above and two below.
Impacted third molars are common around the age of 20, but can occur up to 25 years of age.
Symptom
Symptoms of impacted third molars are not always obvious in all cases. Most patients with impacted third molars are not aware of this condition.
In some cases, impacted third molars cause pain or a feeling of stiffness in the jaw in the area of the impacted third molar. This can be caused by the position of the impacted third molars tilted towards the teeth next to them, thus pressing the second molars.
Swelling of the gums above impacted third molars can also occur in partially impacted third molars, where some of the tooth crowns penetrate the gum and some is immersed in the gums and bone.
Because of this, food is easily tucked between the gums and teeth in the area, making it difficult to clean. Not only that, but it can also cause inflammation of the gums around the crown of the third molar (pericoronitis).
Impacted third molars in some cases also cause headaches, ear or neck pain.
Reason
The cause of impacted third molars is not having enough space in the jaw. Thus, the third molar has no place to grow normally.
Diagnosis
The clinical diagnosis of impacted third molars can be established by observing the position of the teeth in the arch. If there are absolutely no third molars in the arch, then a supporting examination is needed. For example, radiographic examination to ensure that the third molars are blocked from erupting.
The examination that is usually done is a panoramic radiographic examination to see the position of impacted third molars. This examination is also useful to see the relationship of these teeth with the mandibular jawbone.
Another imaging method for establishing the diagnosis is cone beam computed tomography. This imaging can provide a three-dimensional view of the angle and position of the third molar, as well as its relationship to other adjacent anatomical structures. This imaging is especially needed when impacted third molars need to be removed surgically.
Treatment
If impacted third molars tend to be difficult to treat, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon. Likewise, if you have a medical condition that can increase the risk of surgery.
If the third molar is asymptomatic, some dentists and oral surgeons recommend removing the tooth. This is to prevent problems later on.
Meanwhile, third molars that cause pain or other dental problems, will usually be surgically removed.
This surgery can cause pain and bleeding, as well as swelling of the jaw. Talk to your dentist and oral surgeon about handling it. To reduce pain and swelling, doctors usually recommend painkillers and cold compresses.