Growing up, many people consider impacted wisdom teeth removal to be a rite of passage. In reality, impacted teeth can show up anywhere in the mouth. At Lovett Dental Baytown, we provide a variety of specialty dental services like treating impacted teeth. We strive to educate all of our patients on common oral health issues that they might face. We believe that this allows us to take better care of our patients. When it comes to tooth impaction concerns, we are here to help you. As a common oral health concern, it makes sense to learn more about it.

What Are Impacted Teeth?

woman with impacted teethImpacted teeth take place when the enamel of the tooth impacts against the surface of the gum tissue. As babies grow up, there are standard ages at which various teeth should erupt through the surface of the gums. In some cases, these teeth do not erupt properly. As a result, this can lead to a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Generalized discomfort in the mouth
  • Redness and swelling of the jaw
  • Bad breath, which is usually called halitosis
  • Issues related to speaking, chewing, and swallowing
  • Problems related to routine brushing and flossing of the teeth

It is also possible that some people with impacted teeth might not have any symptoms at all. That is why it is important to identify these issues as early as possible so that a trained oral health professional can follow them. In some cases, if impacted teeth are not identified early, this could lead to emergency issues and the need for an emergency dentist.

What About Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

By far, the most common location for dental impaction to take place involves impacted wisdom teeth. Also called the third molars, they are the last teeth to come in. Usually, they show up sometime between the ages of 17 and 25. Every year millions of wisdom teeth are removed, so it’s clear impacted teeth affect millions of people.  Because the diet today mostly consists of softer foods, we no longer need these teeth. In some cases, they might not even come completely.

Usually, when it comes to impacted teeth removal, this is performed by a trained oral surgeon. First, X-rays will be taken. This helps the dentist plan his or her approach. Then, we will walk you through the procedure so you’ll know what to expect. The goal of impacted teeth removal is to prevent swelling, infections, and pain. At Lovett Dental Baytown, we will make sure that we answer all of your questions before the day of the operation.

What Is the Recovery Process Like?

After these teeth are removed, it is important to listen to the guidance of your general dentistry dentist. Some of the most common points to keep in mind following the treatment of dental impaction includes:

  • Your diet will be restricted for several days following the procedure. Be sure to follow these guidelines and give the mouth time to heal.
  • You should avoid strenuous exercise, smoking, spitting, and drinking from a straw following the removal of impacted teeth.
  • Finally, if you know the spelling that gets worse over time, a fever, or extreme pain that is not managed well with your current medications, you should call a dentist for help.

Contact Lovett Dental Baytown To Address Your Impacted Teeth Concerns

At Lovett Dental Baytown, we will always place your needs ahead of our own. We will take a look at your treatment needs and tailor our services to meet them. We will use every ounce of our training and experience to help you when it comes to tooth impaction concerns. Contact us today at 281-838-8400 to make an appointment with one of our trained oral health professionals. We would be honored to help you.