why wisdom teeth get stuck

Wisdom teeth are your third molars, and they usually arrive in the late teens or early twenties. Often there just isn't room, so a tooth can't come in fully and ends up stuck under the gum or bone. That's called an impacted tooth. Here are the most common questions we hear at our South Surrey dental office.

Why do wisdom teeth get stuck?

By the time wisdom teeth arrive, the rest of your teeth are already in place. With no space left, the tooth can't fully erupt. Not everyone has all four, and each one sits at the very back of its side, top and bottom.

What are the four ways a wisdom tooth can be impacted?

1. Tilted forward: the most common type, which can push on the tooth in front.
2. Upright but trapped: pointing the right way, yet stuck below the gum or bone.
3. Sideways: tipped all the way over into the tooth in front.
4. Tilted back: leaning toward the back of the jaw.

What problems can a stuck tooth cause?

• Pain and swelling
• Infection in the gum
• Decay in the neighbouring tooth
• Food traps that are hard to clean

Some stuck teeth cause no trouble at all, which is why a check matters.

Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?

No. It depends on how they're growing and how they affect your other teeth. Low-dose digital X-rays show the angle and roots, and Cone Beam 3D imaging shows nearby nerves, so you get a clear recommendation.

When is the best time to remove them?

• Before 17: teeth are still developing, so we may simply watch them on X-rays.
• 17 to 20: often ideal, before the roots are fully formed.
• After 20: still possible, though fully formed roots can mean a little more recovery time.

What if I'm nervous?

Dr. Alenabi is known for extractions, and sedation options, including IV, are available for nervous patients. We plan with 3D imaging first, and costs and insurance coverage are explained before treatment.

Wisdom teeth bothering you? Call 604-535-8835 or book at morganheightsdental.com, and let's take a look.