Impacted and Missing Teeth
Impacted teeth
Impactions can be caused by improper positioning of the developing tooth bud. This can cause the tooth to fail to erupt into the mouth. Impactions can also be caused by early loss of primary teeth or crowding of teeth. Wisdom teeth are the most commonly impacted teeth. Canines and premolars are also commonly impacted.
This problem should be corrected because it can:
- cause damage to the root structure of adjacent teeth
- interfere with the sinus cavity
- leave unwanted spaces
- lead to improper functioning of the teeth
- cause premature wear of the teeth
- cause asymmetric alignment of the teeth
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How can impacted teeth be orthodontically corrected?
Usually the impacted tooth is brought into the correct position in the arch over a period of several months. Correction of impacted teeth may involve a minor surgical procedure performed by an oral surgeon working closely with our practice. This will allow us to then guide eruption of the impacted tooth into proper position.
Missing teeth
Certain permanent teeth may be missing due to trauma to a developing tooth bud or complete lack of development. The most commonly missing teeth other than wisdom teeth are upper lateral incisors and upper or lower second bicuspids.
This problem should be corrected because it can:
- cause improper functioning of teeth
- cause premature wear of teeth
- cause asymmetric alignment of the teeth
- make your smile less attractive
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How can missing teeth be orthodontically corrected?
Depending upon the situation, the space can be closed with braces or opened for tooth replacement. Bridges or dental implants are restorative options if spaces are created.