Is there a difference between an impacted and infected wisdom tooth? i need to have my wisdom teeth removed and was told that they're impacted. is that the same thing as being infected?

An : An impacted tooth is one that has not fully erupted into the mouth and is, to some degree, still covered gum tissue and / or bone. A fully impacted tooth is completely covered by bone. An impacted tooth does not necessarily have to be infected, but it extremely common that partially impacted are subject to recurrent gum infections that are termed "pericoronitis". This is an indication for extraction. An impacted tooth does not necessarily have to be more difficult to extract than an erupted tooth for two reasons: 1. An impacted tooth may not have completed root formation. Besides having less tooth structure to remove, partially formed roots may not be curved at their tips and thus can be easier to remove. 2. When a tooth is fully erupted and in function, the bone around it consolidates (or hardens) in response to the function. This may make the tooth more difficult to remove. Impacted teeth may be more difficult to remove for the following reasons: 1. There is a significant amount of bone and / or soft tissue covering them making access more difficult. 2. Impacted teeth may be closely related to vital structures such as nerves and the sinuses making extraction more challenging. 3. Impacted teeth may be angled in ways that make it more difficult to extract them. Over the past 10 years specific research has been ongoing which is looking at the specific risks and benefits of removal of asymptomatic third molars (wisdom teeth). There is a "white paper" discussing the results of these studies located on the website of the american association of oral and maxillofacial surgeons (www.Aaoms.Org). There is also associated information that provides an excellent discussion of wisdom teeth and their management. Look under "conditions and treatment" on the right side for "wisdom teeth". Though asymptomatic now, third molars that have not fully erupted into the mouth in a functional and cleanable position can lead to long term problems such as gum disease that can spread to adjacent areas, decay of the third molar or adjacent teeth, recurrent infections (pericoronitis), cysts, tumors, and jaw fracture. It is better to prevent these problems by extraction of non-functional third molars as a late teenager than to have to under go the surgery when you are older and you are not as healthy. Also the surgery may be more difficult and recovery longer if done at a later age. Have your general dentist recommend a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon in your area that can examine you and provide an explanation of your options for both surgery and anesthesia.

Impacted : Impacted means that gums, bone or both are covering the teeth, but does not mean an infection is present. An infection means that there's bacteria causing a reaction, like inflammation, present. Infection means immediate care. Impaction simply means it will be difficult to remove.....