Your wisdom teeth—also known as third molars—are the last teeth to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. When there isn’t enough space in the jaw, impacted wisdom teeth may grow crooked, remain trapped, or fail to break through the gums.
At Orleans Dental Centre, we’re here to help you understand the signs, risks, and solutions for impacted wisdom teeth—so you can take action with confidence.
What Does “Impacted” Mean?
An impacted tooth is one that cannot fully emerge due to lack of space or obstruction, often requiring professional dental care. Wisdom teeth are the most commonly impacted because they’re the last to arrive in an already crowded mouth.
Signs You May Have an Impacted Wisdom Tooth
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Swollen or tender gums
- Difficulty opening your mouth should be evaluated during a professional dental exam.
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Headaches or earaches
- Crowding or shifting of nearby teeth
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to talk to your dentist. Early evaluation can prevent complications.
Why Impacted Wisdom Teeth Can Be a Problem
Left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to:
- Infection or gum inflammation
- Cysts may form around impacted teeth, leading to more serious dental complications.
- Tooth decay or gum disease in surrounding teeth
- Damage to adjacent teeth or roots
- Crowding that affects orthodontic treatment results
Learn more about the benefits of removing wisdom teeth and what to expect from the procedure.
How We Diagnose and Treat Impacted Wisdom Teeth
We use dental X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. If impaction is confirmed, our team will walk you through your treatment options, which often include wisdom tooth extraction.
Wondering about recovery? Explore our blog on what to expect during a dental extraction to help you prepare with ease.
Prevent Future Problems with Proactive Care
Impacted wisdom teeth don’t always cause immediate symptoms—but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Early detection and removal can prevent pain, infection, and damage to the rest of your smile.
Want to learn more about common post-extraction concerns? Read about dry socket and how to prevent it .
Let’s Protect Your Smile—Wisely
At Orleans Dental Centre, we provide trusted, compassionate care for every stage of wisdom tooth development. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or just want peace of mind, contact us today to schedule an evaluation.
Your comfort and long-term oral health are always our priority.