What is an Unerupted tooth?
Last updated: November 23, 2024
What is an unerupted tooth?
An unerupted tooth is a tooth that remains beneath the gumline and hasn’t fully emerged into its proper position in the mouth. Typically, teeth erupt (or come through the gums) in a predictable order and timeline. For example, baby teeth usually begin to come in at around six months old, while permanent teeth start to replace baby teeth around the age of six or seven. However, in some cases, a tooth does not erupt as expected and stays "stuck" beneath the gums. This is called an unerupted tooth.
Unerupted teeth can happen for several reasons. Sometimes, there might not be enough space in the mouth for the tooth to come in properly, which can occur if the jaw is too small or if other teeth are in the way. Crowding can block the path of the unerupted tooth. Another common reason is that the tooth might be “impacted,” meaning it’s positioned at an angle or stuck against another tooth, bone, or soft tissue. This is especially common with wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, which are the teeth in the back of your mouth. Wisdom teeth often don’t erupt properly because they usually grow in late, between the ages of 17 to 25, and by that time, there may not be enough room for them.
Sometimes, an unerupted tooth could also be due to factors like genetics, certain medical conditions, or previous dental trauma. In rare cases, teeth may stay unerupted because they’re missing their natural eruption signal or because cysts or other growths are blocking their path.
Having an unerupted tooth doesn’t always mean you will have noticeable symptoms. Some people might not even know they have one, especially if it’s painless and doesn’t cause any problems. However, in some situations, unerupted teeth can lead to pain, swelling, or infections. They may also affect the alignment of other teeth or cause damage to nearby roots if left untreated.
Dentists and orthodontists can identify unerupted teeth through visual exams and X-rays. Once diagnosed, the treatment plan depends on the situation. For example, if the tooth is unlikely to erupt naturally and is at risk of causing complications, the dentist may recommend removing it. In other cases, orthodontic treatment, such as braces, might be used to create room and help guide the tooth into its proper place.
Understanding what an unerupted tooth is and why it occurs can help you feel more comfortable discussing your options with your dentist. If you have concerns, it’s always best to seek professional dental advice.
Why hasn’t my tooth come in yet?
An unerupted tooth is one that has not yet emerged through the gums. There are several reasons why a tooth might not come in as expected. Understanding the cause can help determine the best course of action.
One common reason a tooth hasn’t come in yet is timing. Everyone’s teeth develop at slightly different rates, so the tooth might just be taking longer to erupt. This is especially true for children, as baby teeth and permanent teeth follow a general timeline but don’t always stick to exact schedules. Some people simply develop later than others, and the unerupted tooth may emerge naturally over time.
Sometimes, there’s not enough space in the mouth for the tooth to come in. This issue, called crowding, often happens when the jaw is too small to accommodate all the teeth. Without enough room, a tooth may remain stuck beneath the gums or may push against other teeth. Crowding is a common issue with wisdom teeth, which are the last teeth to erupt and often don’t have enough space to grow properly.
Another reason could be impaction. An impacted tooth is blocked from coming in by other teeth, bone, or gum tissue. This usually happens with wisdom teeth but can also occur with other types of teeth. An impacted tooth may stay completely under the gums or only partially emerge, causing discomfort or potential dental problems if left untreated.
In some cases, the tooth might be growing in the wrong direction. If the tooth is misaligned or angled incorrectly, it can fail to break through the gums. This problem often requires orthodontic or surgical treatment to guide the tooth into the proper position.
There could also be other underlying causes, such as certain medical conditions or genetic factors, that interfere with tooth eruption. For example, conditions like cysts or tumors in the jaw can block a tooth’s normal growth. Additionally, a baby tooth might be over-retained, meaning it didn’t fall out on schedule, which can prevent the permanent tooth underneath from coming in.
If a tooth hasn’t emerged as expected, it’s important to consult a dentist. They can take X-rays to assess the situation and determine why the tooth hasn’t come in yet. Depending on the cause, they might recommend waiting to see if the tooth erupts naturally, or they may suggest treatment options such as orthodontics, surgery, or extraction to address the issue. Early evaluation and intervention can help prevent future complications.
Will an unerupted tooth cause pain or other problems?
An unerupted tooth is a tooth that hasn’t broken through the gum line, as it normally would during development. Whether or not it causes pain or other problems depends on a few factors, such as the tooth’s position, the reason it hasn't emerged, and how it interacts with the surrounding teeth and tissues.
In many cases, an unerupted tooth may not cause immediate pain or discomfort. Some people may not even realize they have one unless their dentist detects it during a routine exam or on a dental X-ray. However, unerupted teeth can sometimes lead to complications, which may cause pain or other dental issues over time if left untreated.
For instance, an unerupted tooth can exert pressure on neighboring teeth, which may cause discomfort, crowding, or misalignment. Misaligned teeth might require orthodontic treatment, such as braces, to restore proper alignment. If the unerupted tooth is growing at an odd angle, such as being tilted or sideways, it could potentially press against the roots of other teeth, leading to sensitivity or damage.
Additionally, an unerupted tooth that's partially trapped under the gums or bone (also known as an impacted tooth) can create pockets that allow bacteria to enter. This increases the risk of infection, gum inflammation, or a condition called pericoronitis, which can cause pain and swelling around the site. Infections related to an unerupted tooth may also spread to other parts of the mouth if untreated.
In more serious cases, an unerupted tooth can develop a cyst around it. This cyst may grow and damage nearby teeth, roots, or even the jawbone. Although uncommon, such cysts can increase the need for surgical removal of the tooth and additional treatment to repair any damage.
If you suspect an unerupted tooth or if you’re experiencing pain and aren’t sure of the cause, scheduling a dental appointment is important. Dentists can use tools like X-rays to pinpoint the problem and evaluate the position of the unerupted tooth. Depending on the situation, they may recommend monitoring the tooth, orthodontic treatment to guide its movement, or possibly extraction if the tooth is unlikely to erupt properly or is causing significant problems.
While not every unerupted tooth will lead to pain or dental complications, it’s best to address the issue early with the help of your dentist or oral surgeon. Early detection and proper treatment can prevent potential problems and protect your oral health.
How can you tell if I have an unerupted tooth?
Dentists and orthodontists use a variety of methods to determine if you have an unerupted tooth. First, they will perform a thorough visual examination of your mouth. During this exam, they’ll check for any gaps in your smile or areas where a tooth should have emerged but hasn’t. A dentist may also look for any bulging or swelling in the gums, which can be a clue that a tooth is present but has not erupted yet.
If the visual exam raises concerns or confirms suspicions about an unerupted tooth, the dentist will likely order X-rays. Dental X-rays are the most common and reliable method for identifying unerupted teeth. X-rays allow the dentist to see the position of the unerupted tooth, whether it’s stuck under the gums (impacted), and if it’s pressing against other teeth. This is especially useful in planning treatment, as the X-ray can reveal whether the tooth is angled incorrectly or blocked by nearby teeth or bone.
In certain cases, a CT scan or 3D imaging might be recommended. These tools provide a more detailed picture of the jawbone and surrounding tissues. If a standard X-ray doesn’t give enough information or if the unerupted tooth is in a complex position, a CT scan can help the dentist or oral surgeon see the tooth’s exact location and determine the best course of action.
Your dental history and symptoms also play an important role in identifying an unerupted tooth. A dentist may ask if you’ve experienced discomfort, swelling, or pressure in the area where the tooth hasn’t erupted. They’ll also discuss whether there’s a family history of delayed tooth eruption, as genetics sometimes play a role.
If your unerupted tooth is a wisdom tooth or third molar, dentists often expect these teeth to emerge at certain ages, typically in your late teens or early twenties. If it hasn’t erupted, they may monitor its progress over time or recommend removal if it’s likely to cause issues.
In children, dentists carefully track tooth development through regular checkups. If a permanent tooth hasn’t erupted on schedule after a baby tooth has fallen out, they’ll use similar methods—visual examination and X-rays—to investigate the cause. Identifying unerupted teeth early can prevent complications and allow for timely treatment, like orthodontic intervention.
Regular dental visits and routine X-rays help catch unerupted teeth before they cause pain or impact surrounding teeth. If you suspect you have one or are unsure, a dental professional can evaluate and confirm it.
Do unerupted teeth need to be removed?
Whether an unerupted tooth needs to be removed depends on several factors, such as the tooth's position, its potential impact on surrounding teeth, and your overall oral health. Dentists evaluate each case individually to determine the best course of action.
If the unerupted tooth is a wisdom tooth (third molar), removal is often recommended, especially if it is impacted (stuck in the jawbone or gum tissue). Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth. They may also lead to cysts or other complications in the jaw. Because wisdom teeth are not essential for chewing or speaking, dentists and oral surgeons commonly extract these teeth when they pose a risk to your oral health.
For other types of teeth, such as canines or premolars, removal may not always be necessary. If the unerupted tooth is a permanent one and it is properly aligned or has enough space to eventually come through, your dentist may suggest monitoring it over time. However, if the tooth is blocked by another tooth (impacted), misaligned, or causing complications, it may require intervention.
Sometimes, instead of removal, dentists may use orthodontic treatment to help guide the unerupted tooth into its proper position. This approach is especially common for permanent teeth, like canines, that play an important role in your bite and smile. Orthodontic treatments such as braces, space maintainers, or minor surgical procedures can help create enough room for the tooth to emerge naturally or be brought into place.
In cases where an unerupted tooth poses no symptoms or functional problems, dental professionals might adopt a "wait and watch" approach. Routine X-rays and checkups can help track the tooth’s progress and decide if future treatment is necessary.
Ultimately, the decision to remove an unerupted tooth depends on your specific situation, including factors like your age, oral health, and the location of the tooth. It's important to consult a dentist or oral surgeon who can assess your condition and discuss the risks and benefits of different treatment options. This professional advice ensures that you receive the care that’s most appropriate for your needs.
What treatment options are available for an unerupted tooth?
Treatment options for an unerupted tooth depend on several factors, including the tooth’s position, the patient’s age, and the potential impact on other teeth. Dentists or orthodontists will first assess the situation through a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, to determine the exact location and reason the tooth remains unerupted. Once they understand the cause, they will recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
In some cases, if the tooth is simply delayed in coming in but shows no signs of being stuck or impacted, the dentist may take a “wait and see” approach. The tooth might erupt naturally over time, especially in children or teenagers whose jaw is still growing. Monitoring the tooth’s progress with regular check-ups ensures that no further complications occur.
If the unerupted tooth is impacted—meaning it is blocked from emerging due to crowding, soft tissue, or bone—it may require more active intervention. A common treatment in this case is surgical exposure. The dentist or oral surgeon will remove the overlying gum or bone to help the tooth become visible and allow it to erupt naturally. This procedure is often combined with orthodontic treatment to guide the tooth into its proper place.
Orthodontic treatment is another common option for unerupted teeth. If the tooth is in an abnormal position or growing at an angle, braces or other orthodontic devices may gently pull the tooth into alignment. Sometimes, an orthodontist will use a small bracket and chain attached to the unerupted tooth to guide it into its place gradually.
For some patients, extraction of the unerupted tooth might be the best solution. This is often the case when the tooth is unlikely to erupt properly, threatens the health of neighboring teeth, or if it’s a wisdom tooth (third molar). Wisdom teeth are frequently removed because they often become impacted due to lack of space in the jaw.
In rare cases, when the unerupted tooth poses no harm and is not causing any symptoms, the dentist may recommend leaving it alone. This is typically reserved for situations where the tooth is buried deep in the jaw with no foreseeable complications.
It’s important to discuss all available options with your dentist, as the right treatment can vary depending on your specific situation. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, so addressing an unerupted tooth promptly is key to maintaining oral health and preventing future problems.
Can an unerupted tooth move into place on its own?
An unerupted tooth is one that hasn’t fully emerged through the gums into its proper position in the mouth. Whether an unerupted tooth can move into place on its own depends on several factors, including the tooth’s position, the person's age, the available space in the jaw, and the cause of the delayed eruption.
In some cases, an unerupted tooth can move into its correct position without any intervention. For example, if the tooth is simply taking longer to erupt due to natural development, it may come in on its own as long as there’s enough room in the jaw and no blockage preventing it. This is more common in children or teenagers, whose teeth and jaws are still growing. In these situations, your dentist may recommend monitoring the tooth over time during routine dental visits to see if it erupts naturally.
However, if the tooth is impacted, meaning it’s stuck or blocked in the jaw or under the gums, it may not be able to come through on its own. This often happens if the tooth is growing at an angle or if there’s not enough space in the mouth due to crowding. Wisdom teeth, for example, are frequently impacted and usually need some form of treatment, as they rarely erupt naturally without causing problems. Another reason for an unerupted tooth to stay in place may be the presence of cysts or other obstructions in the jaw that block the tooth from moving.
If the unerupted tooth doesn’t appear likely to emerge on its own, a dental professional might recommend different types of treatment. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or a small chain and bracket system, can help guide the tooth into place over time. In some cases, minor gum or bone surgery may be required to expose the tooth before other treatments can help it move into alignment. For wisdom teeth or teeth causing overcrowding, removing the tooth completely is another option if eruption isn’t possible.
The best way to know if your unerupted tooth can move into place is by consulting a dentist, who will likely take X-rays to assess its position and condition. Every situation is different, so it’s important to work with a professional to decide on the best course of action for your unique needs.
How long does it take for an unerupted tooth to emerge?
The time it takes for an unerupted tooth to emerge can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the person’s age, the type of tooth, and any underlying conditions affecting its eruption. In children, primary (baby) teeth typically begin to emerge around six months of age and continue until about age three. If a primary tooth is unerupted, it could simply be delayed and might emerge naturally within a few weeks or months. However, if the delay persists, a dentist may need to evaluate the situation.
For permanent teeth, the eruption process usually starts around age six and continues into the teenage years, sometimes into the early twenties for wisdom teeth. Permanent teeth often follow a specific sequence, but if one remains unerupted, it could mean there’s insufficient space in the mouth, the tooth is growing at an angle (impaction), or a barrier such as another tooth is blocking its path.
Wisdom teeth, the last set of molars, are one of the most common unerupted teeth in adults. These teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, but not everyone’s wisdom teeth fully erupt. In many cases, wisdom teeth either remain impacted or only partially emerge due to overcrowding in the mouth. If this happens, your dentist might recommend monitoring them or removing them surgically to prevent future complications.
In some situations, an unerupted tooth might require intervention to emerge. If a child or teen has a tooth that hasn’t erupted when it should have, a dentist or orthodontist may suggest treatments like braces or spacers to create room for the tooth to come in. They might also use imaging, such as X-rays, to assess the tooth’s position and determine the best course of action. In rare instances, minor surgery might be necessary to expose the tooth so it can erupt properly.
It’s important to remember that every individual is different, and while some teeth might erupt later than expected, they often don’t require action unless there’s evidence of a problem. Regular dental check-ups are the best way to monitor unerupted teeth and act quickly if there’s an issue. If you’re concerned about an unerupted tooth taking too long to emerge, talk to your dentist. They can provide a personalized timeline based on your specific situation and offer guidance on whether treatment is needed or if waiting is the best option.