People visit an orthodontist to improve or correct visible problems like crooked and crowded teeth. And also to fix the misaligned teeth and make the oral structure perfect. But, other than this, they should visit an orthodontist to treat the invisible problem of impacted teeth.
This might come as a surprise to you because orthodontics is never discussed for visible treatments. But, it’s true and you should schedule an appointment with an orthodontist for an impacted tooth.
Impacted tooth- A common but serious dental problem
When a tooth grows at an angle or moves into the gum space needed by another tooth, impaction occurs. This problem affects the root or crown of surrounding teeth. The impacted tooth might not create any problem initially. You might not even experience any problem because of the same. But, if the damage is severe and left untreated, the impacted tooth loosens the surrounding teeth or makes them fall out.
Which tooth mostly gets impacted?
There is no such rule or condition for a tooth to get impacted. Any tooth in any corner of the mouth can get impacted and would need a proper treatment.
Generally, an orthodontist finds impaction in the upper permanent canines. The impacted canines are located in the palate, towards the cheek/lips, and others. The location defines the presentation of the teeth and treatment as well.
Other than this, the teeth that mainly get impacted are molars and premolars.
How should you identify an impacted tooth?
In most cases, it’s very difficult to determine an infected tooth. Without any medical intervention, people get to know about the problem when it becomes serious. The symptoms are painful or swollen gum, headache, or difficulty in opening the mouth fully.
In the dental clinic, an orthodontist gets confirmation about an impacted tooth through a detailed examination or x-ray. The x-ray confirms that a tooth is coming through the gum at a crooked ankle or it can’t erupt.
Sometimes, it gets delayed to spot the impacted tooth and the situation becomes complicated. The only way to prevent complications is through regular dental check-ups. Also, you should get dental x-rays done frequently for in-depth clarification.
What are the orthodontic treatments for an impacted tooth?
If the impacted tooth is noticed in its early days- If early treatment is given, the tooth will erupt without being impacted. Here, a spacer is prescribed to stop a tooth from erupting into the space available for another tooth. If there is a need for more room, a palate expander is fitted. Rest, it depends on the condition of your tooth.
If the impact is on the canine teeth- Orthodontic treatment is mostly about braces. For impacted canine teeth, an orthodontist recommends braces because they pull the impacted teeth into their correct position. Even if the impacted tooth has caused overcrowding, the braces are helpful. They ensure a straight and correctly spaced arch. Also, the impacted tooth starts assisting in biting and chewing functions.
If the impact is on molar teeth- For impacted molar teeth, the orthodontist prescribes plates that are placed in the mouth to move these teeth into a better position. It’s an alternative to braces. Orthodontists prefer braces over plates if crowding is present in the entire arch.
Orthodontic treatment is for an impacted tooth. So, undoubtedly, you should visit an orthodontist.