Posted on 12/15/2025 by Rai Oral Surgery and Dental Implants
Have you ever had a tooth that just wouldn't erupt? It might be hiding beneath the gum line or even growing sideways. If so, you may have an impacted tooth. Impacted teeth are a common problem, especially with wisdom teeth.
What is an Impacted Tooth?
An impacted tooth is a tooth that is unable to erupt through the gums and into its proper position in the mouth. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as:
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Lack of space: The jaw may not have enough space for the tooth to erupt.
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Angle of eruption: The tooth may be growing at an angle that prevents it from breaking through the gum line.
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Another tooth blocking the way: Another tooth may be blocking the impacted tooth from erupting.
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Cyst or tumor: A cyst or tumor may be preventing the tooth from erupting.
Why Remove Impacted Teeth?
Impacted teeth can cause a number of problems, including:
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Pain and inflammation: The impacted tooth can put pressure on the surrounding teeth and gums, causing pain and inflammation.
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Infection: Impacted teeth are more prone to infection than other teeth.
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Damage to other teeth: The impacted tooth can damage the roots of nearby teeth.
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Cysts or tumors: Impacted teeth can sometimes be associated with cysts or tumors, which can damage the jawbone.
How Oral Surgeons Remove Impacted Teeth
If you have an impacted tooth, your oral surgeon will likely recommend removing it. The procedure for removing an impacted tooth is called an extraction.
The extraction process typically involves the following steps:
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Anesthesia: You will be given anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth.
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Incision: Your oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth.
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Bone removal: If necessary, your oral surgeon will remove some of the bone around the impacted tooth to make it easier to remove.
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Tooth removal: Your oral surgeon will carefully remove the impacted tooth.
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Sutures: Your oral surgeon will close the incision with sutures.
The recovery process after an impacted tooth extraction typically takes a few days. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, but these symptoms should gradually subside.
Aftercare
It is important to follow your oral surgeon's instructions carefully after your impacted tooth extraction. This will help to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications. Your oral surgeon will likely recommend that you:
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Take pain medication: Take over-the-counter or prescription pain medication as directed by your oral surgeon.
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Apply ice packs: Apply ice packs to the affected area for the first 24-48 hours to reduce swelling.
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Eat soft foods: Eat soft foods for the first few days after your surgery.
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Avoid strenuous activity: Avoid strenuous activity for the first few days after your surgery.
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Keep the area clean: Rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day to keep the area clean.
Conclusion
If you have an impacted tooth, it is important to see an oral surgeon for treatment. Removing an impacted tooth can help to prevent a number of problems and improve your oral health.
Our Blog | Rai Oral Surgery & Dental Implants | Virginia Beach Shaun B. Rai DMD has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Please read below and then call us today! Rai Oral Surgery and Dental Implants, 933 First Colonial Road #205, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 + (757) 777-9883 + raioralsurgery.com + 1/16/2026 + Key Phrases: oral surgeon Virginia Beach VA +
Have you ever had a tooth that just wouldn't erupt? It might be hiding beneath the gum line or even growing sideways. If so, you may have an impacted tooth. Impacted teeth are a common problem, especially with wisdom teeth.