Impacted teeth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. Orthodontic treatment may help in certain cases by moving these teeth into their proper position. Let’s explore how orthodontics can address impacted teeth and the options available to you.

What Are Impacted Teeth?

Impacted teeth are trapped beneath the gum or bone and are unable to erupt correctly. This can occur due to overcrowding, misalignment, or other dental issues. Studies indicate that 90% of people have at least one impacted tooth, most commonly wisdom teeth.

How Can Orthodontics Help?

Orthodontic treatments in Gisborne like braces or Invisalign can guide impacted teeth into their correct positions, but success depends on several factors:

Position of the Tooth: Teeth closer to the surface are more likely to respond to treatment.

Type of Impaction: Soft tissue impactions (blocked by gums) are easier to treat than hard tissue impactions (blocked by bone).

Overall Oral Health: Healthy gums and teeth are essential before beginning treatment.

A Gisborne dentist will assess your case to recommend the most suitable approach.

Types of Impacted Teeth

Impacted teeth fall into two categories:

Soft Tissue Impaction: The tooth is covered by gum tissue but not bone. This is more likely to respond to orthodontic intervention.
Hard Tissue Impaction: The tooth is blocked by bone or another tooth, often requiring surgery to correct.

Treatment Options for Impacted Teeth

Several options are available to treat impacted teeth. Your Gisborne dentist will recommend the best approach based on the severity of the impaction.

Braces: Braces are often used to move teeth into alignment. They apply gradual pressure, helping the impacted tooth emerge.
Invisalign: Clear aligners like Invisalign are an effective and discreet option for milder cases.
Observation: In some cases, the dentist may monitor the tooth to see if it erupts naturally.
Surgery: For severe cases, surgery may be required to expose or remove the impacted tooth.

According to recent research, 90% of orthodontic cases involving impacted teeth see improvement with timely treatment.

Risks of Untreated Impacted Teeth

Leaving an impacted tooth untreated can lead to:

Tooth decay or cavities.

Gum disease.

Bone loss near the affected area.

Cysts or tumours.

Damage to nearby teeth.

Early treatment is crucial to avoid these complications.

Signs of Impacted Teeth

Common symptoms of impacted teeth include:

Pain or swelling in the gums or jaw.

Red, inflamed gums.

Difficulty biting or chewing.

A visible bump on the gums.

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with your Gisborne dentist.

Orthodontics in Gisborne: A Trusted Solution

Orthodontics can offer a range of treatments to address impacted teeth. While braces or Invisalign are common, the best solution depends on your specific needs. According to the Australian Dental Association, early orthodontic evaluation—ideally by age 7—can help prevent severe complications in later years.

Ready to Address Impacted Teeth?

If you’re experiencing discomfort or suspect impacted teeth, our team at Gisborne Dental can help. Contact us or book an appointment online to explore your treatment options.

Can Orthodontics Help with Impacted Teeth?