What happens when a permanent tooth grows behind another?
When a permanent tooth grows behind another, it is known as an impacted tooth. This condition is relatively common, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when a tooth fails to erupt into the mouth properly, causing it to become trapped or partially blocked by the adjacent tooth, bone, or gum tissue. Impacted teeth can lead to various complications, and it is essential to address this issue promptly to prevent further dental problems.
Causes of Impacted Teeth
Several factors can contribute to the development of impacted teeth. Genetic factors, such as the shape and size of the jaw and tooth size, play a significant role. Other causes include:
1. Lack of space in the jaw: If the jaw is too small to accommodate all the permanent teeth, some teeth may become impacted.
2. Overcrowding: Excessive teeth or an irregularly shaped jaw can lead to overcrowding, causing teeth to shift and become impacted.
3. Trauma: In some cases, a tooth may become impacted due to trauma or injury to the mouth.
4. Tumors: Rarely, a tumor can block the path of a tooth, causing it to become impacted.
Types of Impacted Teeth
Impacted teeth can be categorized into three types based on their position:
1. Vertically impacted: The tooth is positioned vertically but cannot erupt fully into the mouth.
2. Horizontally impacted: The tooth is tilted or angled horizontally, making it difficult to erupt.
3. Mesio-angulated: The tooth is tilted towards the tongue, preventing it from erupting properly.
Complications of Impacted Teeth
If left untreated, impacted teeth can lead to several complications, including:
1. Infection: Bacteria can accumulate in the trapped tooth, leading to an infection.
2. Pain and swelling: Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort.
3. Gum disease: The trapped tooth can contribute to gum disease, as the gums around it may become inflamed and infected.
4. Tooth misalignment: Impacted teeth can disrupt the alignment of other teeth, leading to orthodontic issues.
5. Tooth loss: In severe cases, an impacted tooth may need to be removed to prevent damage to adjacent teeth.
Treatment Options
The treatment for impacted teeth depends on the severity of the case and the position of the tooth. Common treatment options include:
1. Orthodontic treatment: Braces or other orthodontic appliances can be used to create space in the jaw and guide the impacted tooth into its proper position.
2. Extraction: In some cases, the impacted tooth may need to be surgically removed to prevent complications or to make room for other teeth.
3. Bone grafting: If the impacted tooth is due to a lack of space in the jaw, a bone graft may be necessary to create enough room for the tooth to erupt.
4. Apicoectomy: This procedure involves removing the root tip of the impacted tooth to allow it to erupt.
Conclusion
When a permanent tooth grows behind another, it can lead to various complications. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term dental problems. If you suspect you have an impacted tooth, consult with a dentist or oral surgeon to discuss the best treatment options for your specific situation.
