Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop — typically emerging between the late teens and early twenties. In many cases, there simply isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to come through normally. When a wisdom tooth doesn’t fully emerge and stays partially or completely trapped under the gum or jawbone, it is referred to as an impacted wisdom tooth. This can happen because of limited space, unusual tooth angulation, or adjacent teeth blocking its path. They can grow at odd angles, push against neighbouring teeth, or create pockets where bacteria accumulate, leading to inflammation, infection, gum disease, or decay.

The removal of impacted wisdom teeth is a surgical procedure that is typically performed under local or general anaesthesia. During the procedure, a small incision in the gum is often made to access the tooth, and a portion of bone may need to be gently removed to facilitate extraction.

The position of impaction helps determine whether monitoring or surgical removal is recommended.

Mesioangular Impaction

The wisdom tooth is angled forward toward the second molar. This is the most common type of impaction and may lead to food trapping, decay of the adjacent tooth, or gum infection.

Distoangular Impaction

The wisdom tooth is angled backward, away from the second molar. This type is less common and may be more challenging to remove depending on its depth and bone coverage.

Vertical Impaction

The wisdom tooth is positioned upright but fails to fully erupt through the gum. Removal may be required if the tooth causes pain, infection, or pressure on surrounding teeth.

Horizontal Impaction

The wisdom tooth lies horizontally within the jawbone, pressing against the second molar. This type of impaction almost always requires surgical removal.

Buccoangular Impaction

The wisdom tooth is angled outward toward the cheek. This may cause cheek irritation, gum inflammation, or difficulty maintaining oral hygiene in the area.

Linguoangular Impaction

The wisdom tooth is angled inward toward the tongue. Surgical removal requires particular care due to the proximity of important nerves and soft tissues.

Inverted Impaction

A rare form of impaction where the tooth is positioned upside down, with the crown pointing downward into the jawbone. Management typically requires specialist assessment.

After surgery, you can expect an initial period of swelling and discomfort followed by a gradual recovery over several days.