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Q: What does it mean when a wisdom tooth is "impacted?"
A: When a "wisdom tooth," also known as a third molar, does not fully erupt and is trapped either fully or partially in the gum or against another tooth, it's called "impacted." This can be an extremely painful condition, especially if the soft tissues surrounding the crown of the impacted tooth become inflamed and infected.
One of the most common dental surgical procedures is extraction of an impacted wisdom tooth. This procedure requires the expertise of the oral surgeon. The surgeon will use either a local or general anesthetic to make sure you experience no pain during the procedure. A third molar can have as many as five curved roots. Sometimes it's necessary for the oral surgeon to break the tooth into several sections to get it out. The surgeon will. carefully clean and irrigate the wound and close it with sutures. Residual pain and swelling in the jaw may last for a few days. Your dentist can give you a more comprehensive explanation about the ins and outs of wisdom teeth.
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