Tooth pain that won’t go away. Swollen gums near the back of your mouth. A dull ache in your jaw that keeps coming back. These are all signs that something may be going on below the gum line, and quite often, an impacted tooth is the cause.
An impacted tooth cannot fully break through the gum tissue. It gets stuck, either partially or completely, beneath the surface. This happens most often with wisdom teeth, but it can affect other teeth, too. Left untreated, impacted teeth can lead to infection, damage to nearby teeth, cyst formation, and ongoing pain.
Here at Dental Group of Lubbock, we want our patients across Lubbock, Wolfforth, Shallowater, and the South Plains area to understand their options. Dr. Haseloff and our team are here to walk you through what impacted teeth are, why they happen, and how we can help you find lasting relief.
What Is an Impacted Tooth and Why Does It Happen?
A tooth becomes impacted when there is not enough room in the jaw for it to erupt properly. It may grow at the wrong angle, push against another tooth, or remain entirely buried under the gumline.
The most common culprits are the third molars, better known as wisdom teeth. These are the last teeth to come in, usually between ages 17 and 25. By that time, the jaw is often already full, leaving no space for them to erupt normally.
Other teeth, like the upper canines (cuspids), can also become impacted. Dense gum tissue, extra teeth blocking the path, or early loss of baby teeth can all play a role.
Common Warning Signs Include:
- Pain or tenderness near the back of the jaw
- Red, puffy, or bleeding gum tissue
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Swelling around the jaw or cheek area
Not all impacted teeth cause immediate symptoms. That is why routine dental X-rays are so important; they allow us to detect impaction before it becomes a bigger problem.
Why Treating an Impacted Tooth Is Important
Some patients ask us whether it is okay to leave an impacted tooth alone. In most cases, the answer is no, and here is the reason.
An impacted tooth creates a pocket between the gum and the tooth surface. That space traps food particles and bacteria, making it nearly impossible to clean properly. Over time, this can lead to pericoronitis (infection around the tooth), decay in the neighboring teeth, and even cyst or abscess formation in the jawbone.
Early treatment is almost always the better path. Procedures tend to be less complicated when performed before an infection or significant damage develops. Recovery is also typically smoother in younger patients, since the roots are not yet fully formed and the bone is less dense.
Oral Surgery Treatment Options We Offer
When it comes to impacted teeth, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The right approach depends on which tooth is affected, how deeply it is impacted, and your overall dental health. Here is a look at the primary oral surgery options available at our office.
Tooth Extractions
For teeth that are severely decayed, badly positioned, or damaging surrounding structures, extraction is often the most practical choice. A simple extraction is performed when the tooth has partially erupted and can be accessed directly. A surgical extraction is required when the tooth is still beneath the gumline. In this case, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to reach and remove the tooth.
Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for patients who feel anxious. Post-procedure discomfort is manageable with proper care and usually resolves within a few days.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common dental procedures performed for patients in Lubbock and surrounding communities. Whether you are dealing with fully impacted, partially erupted, or sideways-growing third molars, removal can relieve pain and prevent future problems.
During the procedure, the area is numbed completely. If the tooth is impacted under the bone, a small amount of bone tissue may need to be removed to access it. In some cases, the tooth is divided into sections for easier removal. Stitches are placed, and patients leave with clear aftercare instructions.
Most patients recover fully within a week to ten days. Soft foods, proper oral hygiene, and avoiding straws during the healing period all make a big difference.
Corrective Jaw Surgery
In more complex situations, such as significant jaw misalignment, bite problems, or teeth that have become deeply embedded in the bone, corrective jaw surgery may be recommended. This type of procedure goes beyond a standard extraction. It may involve repositioning the jawbone, removing cysts, or exposing and bonding an impacted tooth to guide it into the correct position over time (often done in coordination with orthodontic treatment).
Corrective jaw surgery is a more involved process and requires a detailed evaluation, imaging, and treatment planning. Dr. Haseloff will review all findings with you and explain exactly what the procedure involves before any steps are taken.
What to Expect: From Consultation to Recovery
Your first step is a thorough examination and dental imaging, typically a panoramic X-ray or cone-beam CT scan. This gives a clear view of your tooth’s position, root development, and its relationship to nearby nerves and bone.
Once we understand what we are working with, we discuss your oral surgery treatment options in plain terms. No confusing dental jargon, no pressure. Just a clear explanation of what is going on and what we recommend.
On the day of your procedure, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the area. Sedation options are available if needed. Most extractions and wisdom tooth removals take between 45 minutes and an hour. You will need someone to drive you home if sedation is used.
Recovery tips include:
- Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding in the first few hours
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling during the first 24 hours
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and using straws
- Rinse gently with warm salt water after 24 hours
- Take prescribed medications as directed
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Smile
Impacted teeth are not something you have to live with. Whether you need a simple extraction, wisdom teeth removal, or more involved corrective jaw surgery, the right care can make a real difference in how you feel day to day.
At Dental Group of Lubbock, we take the time to understand your concerns, clearly explain your options, and ensure you feel comfortable before any procedure begins. Your oral health matters to us, and so does your peace of mind.
Ready to take the next step? Call us at 806-370-2718 to book an appointment. Our team is here to help you get the care you need, close to home.