What is dental impaction?
An impacted tooth is one that remains stuck beneath the gum or bone and cannot erupt into its normal position in the mouth.
Dental impaction happens when a tooth cannot break through the gum and bone to reach its position in the jaw. This most often affects wisdom teeth (third molars), though impaction can occur with canines and other teeth as well. The tooth may be blocked by insufficient space in the jaw, dense bone covering it, thick gum tissue, or pressure from adjacent teeth.
An impacted tooth frequently causes pain, swelling around the jaw, or difficulty opening the mouth. Infection can develop around the trapped tooth, leading to cysts or damage to nearby bone and tooth roots. Some people experience no symptoms at all, but the tooth can still create problems over time.
Dental professionals diagnose impaction using X-ray imaging, typically panoramic radiographs or cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. These images reveal the tooth's position, angle, and depth beneath the surface, helping determine whether removal or monitoring is needed. Mild cases may require only observation, while severe impaction with pain or infection usually requires extraction by a dentist or specialist. If you suspect an impacted tooth, your dental clinic can evaluate it during a routine examination and arrange appropriate care through oral and maxillofacial surgery providers if necessary.