What Are Impacted Teeth?
Impacted teeth are teeth that fail to emerge properly through the gums, often due to insufficient space or misalignment. This commonly occurs with wisdom teeth, but other teeth, such as canines, can also become impacted. When a tooth is impacted, it may remain partially or fully submerged beneath the gum line, leading to potential pain, swelling, or infection. At Mobile Oral and Facial Surgery, Dr. Christopher Mullenix and Dr. Aaron Wallender specialize in diagnosing and treating impacted teeth, providing solutions to alleviate discomfort, prevent complications, and restore proper dental alignment. Treatment may involve monitoring the impacted tooth, using orthodontic methods, or performing a surgical extraction if necessary. To learn more about impacted teeth and treatment, contact our Mobile, AL office to schedule a consultation.
How Are Impacted Teeth Treated?
The treatment of impacted teeth typically involves a surgical procedure to remove or reposition the tooth for proper alignment and takes between 30 – 60 minutes. During the procedure, one of our oral surgeons will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the impacted tooth. If the tooth is fully impacted, we may need to remove the surrounding bone to expose the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may be extracted in pieces to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissues. If the tooth is being repositioned, we may expose the tooth and suggest orthodontic techniques to guide it into place. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure comfort, and stitches are placed to close the incision. Afterward, patients are provided with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize discomfort during recovery.
What Are the Benefits of Treating Impacted Teeth?
Treating impacted teeth offers several benefits, helping to prevent complications and improve oral health. Benefits include:
- Prevents pain and discomfort
- Reduces the risk of infection and gum disease
- Prevents damage to surrounding teeth and bone
- Improves oral function and alignment
- Reduces the risk of cysts or tumors
- Alleviates the potential for orthodontic issues
- Restores the overall appearance of the smile
- Improves bite function and jaw alignment
- Helps avoid future dental complications
- Promotes long-term oral health
Mobile Oral and Facial Surgery Reviews
I went in for a dental implant procedure. I was a bit apprehensive due to how many years had gone by since the tooth was extracted. Upon arrival all staff encountered were quite pleasant and reassuring about what I was about to experience. Needless to say everything went very well. When I was awakened after the procedure, I was still waiting for it to begin. Day 2 after the procedure and all I’ve taken is the prescribed antibiotics and OTC Tylenol. Dr. Mullinex even called later that evening to do a wellness check. I go back in several days for a follow up.
Dr. Mullenix and his entire staff are GREAT! I recommend him 100%. He makes the entire visit comfortable and as painless as possible!!!!
The whole staff was very professional and knowledgeable and friendly.
Love this office! Friendly office staff. Everyone one I came in connect with was very helpful and knowledgeable. Dr. Mullenix answered every single question I had, and did a great job with removing my tooth. 10/10 recommend
Everyone was wonderful and very professional and kind from the front desk staff all the way to Dr. Lewis himself. I knew I was in confident, skilled hands that would give me the very best care possible and that is definitely what I received!!!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks of leaving an impacted tooth untreated?
Leaving an impacted tooth untreated can lead to pain, swelling, and infections. It may also damage surrounding teeth, cause cysts or tumors, and lead to misalignment of your bite. At Mobile Oral and Facial Surgery, we recommend prompt evaluation and treatment to prevent these complications and protect your oral health.
Will I need to take time off work or school after the procedure?
Most patients require a few days of rest after an impacted tooth treatment to allow the swelling and discomfort to subside. Dr. Mullenix and Dr. Wallender will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you recover smoothly. Depending on the complexity of your procedure, you may need additional time for healing.
What can I eat after the procedure?
After surgery, stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the surgical site. Our staff in Mobile, AL, will provide a complete list of dietary recommendations to help with your recovery.
Treat Impacted Teeth Today
If you're dealing with impacted teeth, don't wait to seek treatment. At Mobile Oral and Facial Surgery, Dr. Christopher Mullenix and Dr. Aaron Wallender offer care for impacted teeth to alleviate pain, restore proper alignment, and prevent future dental issues. Contact us in Mobile, AL today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help improve your oral health and overall well-being.