Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the third molars (wisdom teeth) do not have enough space to emerge or erupt properly. This can lead to them becoming “impacted,” meaning they are blocked from fully coming through the gums. Several factors can contribute to impacted wisdom teeth: Lack of Space in the Jaw: The most common cause of impaction is a lack of space in the mouth. If there isn’t enough room for the wisdom teeth to emerge, they can become trapped beneath the gum line or grow at an angle. Late Eruption: Wisdom teeth often emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, and this late eruption can increase the chance that they don’t have room to come in properly. Abnormal Tooth Growth: Sometimes, wisdom teeth can grow at an angle, horizontally, or even backward toward the jawbone or other teeth, leading to impaction. Overcrowding of Teeth: If there’s already overcrowding in the mouth, the wisdom teeth may have difficulty erupting through the gums as the other teeth take up more space. Absence of Opposing Teeth: If the opposing teeth (such as the second molars) are missing, the wisdom teeth might not erupt properly or may shift in ways that cause impaction. Tooth Infection or Decay: In some cases, wisdom teeth may become impacted due to infection or decay, preventing them from emerging properly. If impacted wisdom teeth cause pain or other problems, such as infection or damage to nearby teeth, they may need to be removed. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor their development. Behind every successful dental surgery is a patient who is closer to a pain-free life and a more confident smile.
