What to Expect When You Have a Vertical Impacted Wisdom Tooth

What to Expect When You Have a Vertical Impacted Wisdom Tooth

If you have a wisdom tooth, or third molar, that’s impacted, it means the tooth has not fully erupted into your mouth and instead is growing at an angle. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and even infection, as food particles and bacteria can get trapped in the area. If you have a vertical impacted wisdom tooth, which means it’s growing straight down but hasn’t fully erupted from your gum, you may experience different symptoms than with other impacted teeth.

So what can you expect when you have a vertical impacted wisdom tooth? Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. You may not even know you have one.

Unlike other impacted wisdom teeth that can cause visible swelling and pain, a vertical impacted tooth may not have obvious symptoms. In fact, it may only be discovered during a routine dental X-ray.

2. You may experience mild discomfort.

If your vertical impacted wisdom tooth is just starting to push against your neighboring teeth or gums, you may feel some mild discomfort. This could include soreness, pressure, or a dull ache in the affected area.

3. You may develop a gum flap.

As the tooth continues to grow and press against your gums, you may develop a flap of gum tissue that covers part of the tooth. This flap can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to an increased risk of infection.

4. You may be more susceptible to cavities.

Because it’s harder to keep the area around a vertical impacted tooth clean, you may be more susceptible to developing cavities or gum disease in that spot. Be sure to brush and floss regularly, and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to keep the area clean.

5. You may need to have the tooth extracted.

If your vertical impacted wisdom tooth is causing significant discomfort, pain, or infection, the best course of action may be to have it extracted. This is a relatively straightforward procedure that your dentist or oral surgeon can perform, and it can help prevent further complications.

In conclusion, having a vertical impacted wisdom tooth isn’t necessarily cause for alarm, but it’s important to stay aware of any symptoms or discomfort you may be experiencing. If you’re unsure whether your wisdom teeth are impacted, be sure to talk to your dentist or orthodontist. They can help you determine the best course of action and keep your oral health on track.

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