Non-Impacted Wisdom
Teeth
The most straight forward, non-impacted molars develop and
emerge just as any other tooth would. With non-impacted wisdom teeth, patients
typically have arches that are large enough to accommodate the extra teeth, ensuring
proper development and emergence through both the bone and soft tissue. While
these teeth may sit comfortably, extraction is still recommended as wisdom
teeth are often more difficult to keep clean and may not be in correct
alignment with the rest of the bite.
Partially Impacted
Wisdom Teeth
In other cases, the molars may develop correctly but are otherwise
unable to completely emerge into the arch. As a result, the crown of this
partially erupted tooth may be visible. Compared to fully impacted and
non-impacted wisdom teeth, partially impacted molars are particularly
complicated as the gums create a flap over the tooth which can trap food and
bacteria. As a result, patients with partially impacted wisdom teeth are at an
increased risk of developing further health complications, such as periodontal
disease, tooth decay, and pericoronitis, or the infection of the tissue around
the emerged crown.
Fully Impacted Wisdom
Teeth
For some patients, developing wisdom teeth may not even make
it partially through the bone. There are a number of different types of full
impaction, each distinguished by the position of the tooth as well as where the
impaction has occurred. For example, a horizontal bony impaction refers to a
tooth that is lying on its side and is still in the jaw bone. Similarly, a
mesial soft tissue impaction refers to a tooth that is still in the gums yet is
angled forwards toward the front of the mouth.
Wisdom Tooth
Extraction in Northern VA
At the Lorton and Springfield offices of Dr. Snehal Patel,
wisdom teeth extraction is a comfortable process that can be done at either of
our locations. For more information about protecting your smile from the
long-term consequences of wisdom teeth, contact our oral surgeon today to
schedule your consultation. 