When a wisdom tooth becomes partially bony impacted, it means that the tooth is only partially covered by the jawbone, but is still unable to fully emerge through the gum line. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection, and may require dental intervention to alleviate the symptoms.
Causes of Partially Bony Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Partially bony impacted wisdom teeth occur when the tooth is unable to fully emerge through the gum line due to lack of space in the mouth. The tooth may also become twisted or angled, making it difficult to grow in properly.
Symptoms of Partially Bony Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or infection in the area of a wisdom tooth, it is important to seek dental attention. Other symptoms of partially bony impacted wisdom teeth may include:
- Red or swollen gums around the affected tooth
- Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing
- Headaches or earaches
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Treatment Options for Partially Bony Impacted Wisdom Teeth
The treatment for partially bony impacted wisdom teeth depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms you are experiencing.
If the tooth is not causing any problems, your dentist may recommend monitoring it closely to ensure it does not worsen over time. However, if you are experiencing pain, swelling, or infection, your dentist may recommend surgical removal of the impacted tooth.
Surgical removal of a partially bony impacted wisdom tooth is a more complex procedure than a simple tooth extraction, as the tooth may require an incision to access it. Your dentist or oral surgeon will numb the area around the tooth and may offer you sedation or general anesthesia to help you relax.
Once the tooth is removed, your dentist or oral surgeon will clean the socket and place a gauze pad over the area to control bleeding. They may also stitch the gum tissue back together if necessary.
After the Procedure
After the procedure, you may experience some swelling, pain, and bleeding for a few days. Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you instructions on how to manage these symptoms and may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics if necessary. You should avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, or eating hard, crunchy foods for at least 24 hours after the extraction to allow the socket to heal.
It is also important to practice good oral hygiene after a wisdom tooth extraction to prevent infection and promote healing. Brush your teeth gently and avoid the extraction site for the first day or two. After that, you can gently clean the area with a soft-bristled brush and warm saltwater rinse.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or infection in the area of a wisdom tooth, it is important to seek dental attention. Partially bony impacted wisdom teeth can cause discomfort and may require surgical intervention to alleviate the symptoms. By working with a qualified dentist or oral surgeon and following their instructions for aftercare, you can ensure a successful and speedy recovery.