Tooth eruption is the process by which teeth emerge through the gums and into the mouth. This process generally begins during infancy and continues until the late teenage years when the third molars, or wisdom teeth, finally come in. However, there are times when teeth fail to erupt as expected, a condition known as impacted teeth.
At Periodontal Specialists, we are dedicated to helping you understand why some teeth don’t erupt, the risks associated with this issue, and the treatment options available. Whether you are experiencing this with your child or as an adult, our team of periodontal specialists in Kansas City can provide you with the care you need.
There are several reasons why teeth fail to erupt through the gums. The main causes can include:
Genetics plays a significant role in tooth eruption. If there’s a family history of delayed or missing teeth, your child or you may be more likely to experience this condition. Developmental issues such as abnormalities in the jaw or teeth formation can also delay eruption.
Tooth impaction occurs when a tooth is unable to emerge from the gums due to a lack of space, misalignment, or obstruction by neighbouring teeth or bone. Commonly, this happens with wisdom teeth or adult teeth that are larger than average and don’t have enough room to grow.
In some cases, additional teeth known as supernumerary teeth can interfere with the eruption of permanent teeth. These extra teeth can block the normal eruption path, leading to impaction or delayed eruption.
A small jaw or misalignment in the jaw structure may not leave enough room for teeth to grow properly. This can often result in impacted or unerupted teeth, particularly with the molars or canines.
Infection, trauma, or injury to the mouth or gums can also prevent teeth from erupting. Infections that affect the gums or bone tissue may obstruct the eruption process, and injuries may damage the developing tooth, causing it to fail to emerge.
When a tooth doesn’t erupt as expected, it can lead to several complications:
Impacted teeth that are trapped beneath the gums can be prone to infection. Food particles and bacteria can get trapped in the area, leading to gum inflammation, swelling, and even an abscess. If left untreated, this could cause more serious infections or damage to surrounding teeth and tissue.
Teeth that fail to erupt can cause crowding and misalignment in the mouth. The lack of space can lead to changes in the positioning of other teeth, which may cause an uneven bite and lead to future orthodontic problems.
An impacted tooth that doesn’t erupt can be painful, especially when it presses against other teeth or causes swelling. This discomfort can be a constant issue, affecting eating, speaking, and oral hygiene.
In rare cases, the failure of a tooth to erupt can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors in the jaw. These abnormal growths can damage the surrounding bone and tissue, requiring more complex treatments to address the issue.
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to manage impacted or non-erupting teeth, and the right treatment will depend on the specific cause and severity of the issue.
In some cases, especially with children or teenagers, monitoring the eruption of teeth over time is the first step. If a tooth is expected to erupt but hasn't, your periodontal specialist in Kansas City will likely take periodic X-rays to assess the situation and determine whether intervention is needed.
If a tooth is impacted and causing pain, infection, or other issues, your dentist or periodontal specialist may recommend surgically exposing the tooth. This involves creating a small flap in the gum to allow the tooth to emerge. In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be needed to guide the tooth into place.
When an impacted tooth is causing problems or is unlikely to erupt, your dentist or specialist may recommend tooth extraction. This is common for wisdom teeth or other non-erupting teeth that are causing discomfort or misalignment in the mouth. Once the tooth is removed, additional procedures such as orthodontic care may be needed to correct any alignment issues.
For misaligned teeth or teeth that are struggling to erupt properly, orthodontics can be used to create more space or help reposition teeth. In some cases, orthodontic devices such as braces or clear aligners may help to guide the eruption of the tooth into its correct position.
If you or your child experiences delayed or non-erupting teeth, it's important to consult a periodontal specialist in Kansas City for an evaluation. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing complications, such as infections, alignment issues, or damage to surrounding teeth.
Regular dental checkups and X-rays can help monitor tooth eruption and address any issues promptly. If you notice any signs of discomfort, swelling, or infection, schedule a consultation with Periodontal Specialists as soon as possible to ensure the health of your teeth and gums.
If you have concerns about non-erupting or impacted teeth, Periodontal Specialists is here to help. Our team of experts will work with you to assess the situation, recommend appropriate treatments, and guide you through the entire process.
