Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars that fail to erupt fully or correctly into the oral cavity due to insufficient space, abnormal angulation, or obstruction by surrounding bone or adjacent teeth. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 and are a frequent cause of dental pain, infection, and long-term oral complications. Because wisdom teeth are the last teeth to develop, the jaw often does not have adequate room to accommodate them, increasing the likelihood of partial or complete impaction.

There are different types of impaction depending on the tooth’s position. Some wisdom teeth remain fully embedded within the jawbone, while others partially erupt through the gums. Partially erupted wisdom teeth are particularly problematic, as they create a pocket of gum tissue where food debris and bacteria accumulate. This often leads to inflammation and infection of the surrounding gums, a condition known as pericoronitis. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, bad breath, and discomfort while chewing.

Even fully impacted wisdom teeth can cause complications. Pressure exerted on adjacent teeth may contribute to crowding, root resorption, or damage to neighboring molars. In some cases, impacted teeth may be associated with cyst formation or localized bone destruction, which can compromise jaw integrity if left untreated. Because these complications may develop silently, regular dental evaluation is essential even when no symptoms are present.

Diagnosis of impacted wisdom teeth involves a detailed clinical examination supported by dental imaging, most commonly panoramic X-rays. Imaging helps determine the position of the tooth, depth of impaction, relationship to nerves and sinuses, and potential risks associated with removal. Early diagnosis allows dentists to plan intervention before infection or structural damage occurs.

Management depends on symptoms, age, and risk assessment. Asymptomatic wisdom teeth may be monitored periodically, but removal is often recommended when there is a high risk of future complications. Symptomatic impactions usually require surgical extraction to prevent recurrent infection, damage to adjacent teeth, and chronic pain. Wisdom tooth removal is a routine procedure performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on complexity.

Post-extraction care focuses on pain management, infection prevention, and proper healing. Early intervention generally results in simpler surgery and faster recovery. Proactive assessment and timely management of impacted wisdom teeth play a critical role in preserving long-term oral health.