Understanding Impacted Teeth: Causes and Treatments
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2009/08/14 - Updated: 2025/04/30
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Dental and Teeth - Academic Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: ​This information provides a detailed overview of impacted teeth, teeth that fail to emerge properly, often due to overcrowding or misalignment. It highlights that wisdom teeth and upper canines (maxillary cuspids) are most commonly affected. The article emphasizes the importance of early intervention, especially for impacted canines, which play a crucial role in guiding the bite and maintaining dental alignment. Treatment options, such as surgical exposure and orthodontic bracketing, are discussed, noting that these procedures are typically straightforward and performed under local anesthesia or sedation. The information is particularly useful for individuals with disabilities or seniors, who may face additional challenges in oral health management, underscoring the need for timely dental consultations and interventions - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
Essentially, when a tooth is said to be impacted, it means the tooth has become stuck in a position where it's unable to emerge in a normal manner. Wisdom teeth are the most common teeth to become impacted, followed by one's upper eyetooth or maxillary cuspid.
Main Content
No matter which teeth become impacted, it is essential that you then make an appointment to see an oral surgeon as soon as possible. Bear in mind that your upper eyetooth is in fact a critical one in that it is situated in the dental arch and it plays an important role with regards to your bite. In fact, these teeth play a huge role in that they are incredibly strong and also because they have the longest roots. Furthermore, because these teeth are designed in such a way so that they touch first, they end up guiding all your other teeth in order to form a proper bite. Of course, if these teeth become damaged, it results in your bite becoming disrupted and other complications can then follow. In that case it will be essential to see a dental surgeon in order to have the problem fixed.
The maxillary cuspid teeth are also commonly the last teeth to emerge, usually when one reaches the age of about thirteen. At this point the teeth emerge and help to close any spaces which may be left between the top teeth. Of course, when you go and see a dental surgeon they will be able to tell you more about this process and they will also be able to advise you whether or not your teeth have emerged correctly. If for some reason your maxillary cuspid teeth are impacted, a maxillofacial surgeon will do whatever they can in order to make the tooth emerge correctly and become rooted in its proper position.
Nowadays there are a number of techniques which are used in order to rectify emerged teeth.
For the most part, these techniques can be used for any tooth that is impacted although they are most commonly used for working with maxillary cuspid teeth. In fact, there is now a dedicated surgery which is used specifically to expose and bracket impacted teeth.
Generally speaking, the surgery is pretty straight forward with no complicated procedures and is more often than not carried out in the office of a dental surgeon. However, before the procedure takes place, the maxillofacial surgeon may recommend local anesthesia, although many people opt for intravenous sedation instead.
If you have any concerns with regards to your maxillary cuspid teeth then you should make an appointment to go and see a dental surgeon who will be able to offer you advice with regards to everything you need to know.
In most cases, when you go to have impacted removed or repaired, the dental surgeon will first take X-rays so as to allow them to examine your teeth properly. Of course, if you've had X-rays taken elsewhere recently, then you should take them with you to show to the dental surgeon because it can save you some time and money.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: Addressing impacted teeth early is not merely a matter of comfort - it's a safeguard against cascading oral health issues. The outlined procedures, while routine for specialists, underscore the importance of proactive dental care, especially for vulnerable populations like seniors or those with disabilities, where untreated dental problems can exacerbate existing health challenges. Timely intervention here isn't just about preserving a smile; it's about maintaining fundamental quality of life - Disabled World (DW).
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.