A retained wisdom tooth (also called an "impacted tooth") is one that remains partially or fully trapped in the gum or jawbone and cannot erupt completely. This condition often leads to inflammation, pain, swelling, damage to adjacent teeth, cyst formation, and other complications. Without timely removal, the problem may worsen and affect your bite, chewing ability, and overall oral health.
Retention: What Is It and How to Detect It?
Tooth retention is a condition in which a tooth remains within the bone or soft tissue and cannot erupt. Retained teeth are most often found in the lower jaw but may also occur in the upper jaw.
Common symptoms of retention include:
- Discomfort or pain in the area of the back teeth, especially during chewing;
- Swelling or inflammation of the gum near the unerupted tooth;
- Pressure sensation on adjacent teeth;
- Bad breath;
- In some cases – headaches or jaw discomfort;
- A visible gap where the tooth should be erupting.
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not delay your dental visit: retained teeth usually require timely diagnosis and, in most cases, surgical removal.
Prices in the Czech Republic for Removal of a Retained Wisdom Tooth
All price-
Surgical examination
900 CZK -
Tomography of 1 jaw
1 500 CZK -
Tomography of 2 jaws
2 100 CZK -
Tooth extraction
1 800-3 200 CZK -
8-th tooth extraction
3 200-7 200 CZK
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Frequently asked questions about impacted tooth removal
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Is it painful to extract an impacted wisdom tooth?
The surgery is performed under local anesthesia, so the procedure itself is comfortable. Some pain may occur after the extraction, but it is usually well managed with prescribed pain relievers.
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How long does recovery take after removal?
Recovery from impacted eighth tooth extraction typically takes 7 to 14 days. Full healing of the wound may take several weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and the patient’s individual healing ability. Healing time always depends on these factors.
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When can I eat after extraction?
You can eat a few hours after the tooth is removed — once the anesthesia wears off. During the first 24 hours, avoid hot food and drinks, and do not chew on the side where the extraction occurred. A soft, gentle diet is recommended for a few days to avoid irritating the surgical area.
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Do I need to take antibiotics?
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics after tooth extraction to prevent infection. This is especially common after a complex procedure or if there is a risk of complications. Always follow your medical provider's instructions carefully.
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What complications can occur after impacted wisdom tooth removal?
Possible complications after eighth tooth extraction may include: Infection; Prolonged bleeding; Dry socket (inflammation of the wound); Nerve damage (numbness or tingling in the lip, tongue, or chin); Swelling and tenderness; Delayed or poor healing. To avoid such complications, it is essential to follow all postoperative care instructions and choose an experienced dentist for the intervention.
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View all blogAt Dynasty Stomatology Clinic in Czech Republic, we perform tooth removal regardless of its position or the complexity of the case. The procedure is carried out by an experienced dental surgeon under anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience. Schedule an appointment to evaluate your condition and choose the best treatment option.
Causes of Tooth Retention
Retention occurs when a wisdom tooth is unable to erupt naturally and remains in the bone or soft tissues. This can be caused by both anatomical and external factors.
Key causes include:
- Lack of space in the dental arch for the third molars;
- Incorrect position of the developing tooth, preventing eruption;
- Thick or dense gum tissue;
- Late development of the wisdom tooth, when the jaw is already fully formed;
- Hereditary factors affecting jaw size and shape;
- Past trauma or inflammation in the area of tooth formation.
These factors can lead to the formation of an unerupted tooth, which may result in discomfort, inflammation, and shifting of neighboring teeth.
Types of Retention of a Problematic Tooth
Retention can take different forms, depending on the tooth’s location in the jawbone and surrounding soft tissues. The exact type of retained tooth is diagnosed by a doctor based on clinical examination and radiograph or CT scan results.
Main types of retention include:
In difficult or complex cases, the tooth may be sectioned into fragments by the surgeon for safe removal.
Should Retained Teeth Be Removed or Left Untouched?
A retained wisdom tooth (also known as an eighth) is a potential source of problems, even if it causes no painful symptoms at the moment. Its impacted or partially erupted position can lead to infection, inflammation, damage to adjacent teeth, and even misalignment of the dental arch.
Wisdom teeth (eights) removal is recommended in the following cases:
- Presence of pain, swelling, or inflammatory response in the gum tissue near the tooth;
- Pressure on neighboring teeth, which may alter bite alignment;
- Formation of a cyst or abscess;
- Repeated injury to the cheek or gum tissues;
- Poor oral hygiene and increased risk of caries;
- As part of orthodontic or implant treatment planning.
Prompt extraction of a retained tooth helps avoid complications and preserve overall oral health. The entire procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia by a qualified dentist or oral surgeon, who applies a tailored surgical intervention strategy based on the location and condition of the tooth.
Contraindications
Extraction of an impacted eighth tooth (wisdom tooth) in case of abnormal position is not performed in the following situations:
- Acute inflammatory processes in the oral cavity;
- Blood clotting disorders;
- Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus;
- Acute infectious diseases;
- Vascular-nerve system anomalies in the extraction area;
- Pregnancy, especially during the first trimester;
- Severe somatic conditions in a decompensated state.
Diagnostics Before Extraction
If tooth extraction is indicated, a thorough medical examination is conducted before the intervention to determine the type of retention, the exact location, and the condition of nearby teeth and soft tissues. The diagnostic process may include:
- Examination by a dentist;
- Evaluation of patient concerns and symptoms;
- Panoramic x-ray (OPG);
- CT scan for detailed imaging.
How an Impacted Wisdom Tooth Is Extracted
Extraction of a retained wisdom tooth is typically done via surgery under local anesthesia. The procedure begins with an incision in the gum tissue over the affected tooth. A flap of soft tissue is then lifted, and if access is limited, a portion of the overlying bone is carefully removed.
If the tooth is deep or abnormally positioned, it may be sectioned into parts, which are then extracted one by one. After removal, the wound is thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic. If necessary, a protective material or healing solution is placed in the socket to provide faster recovery. The area is sutured, and the stitches are usually removed after 7-10 days.
Healing occurs without complications when attention to post-operative care is observed. Swelling and discomfort usually subside within a few days. In rare cases, antibiotics may be prescribed if there is a risk of infection or spread of inflammation.
It’s important to follow all medical advice and seek help immediately if severe pain or signs of infection appear.
What Recommendations Should Be Followed After Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
To ensure proper healing and avoid complications, it is important to follow these recovery guidelines after the extraction of an impacted eighth tooth (wisdom tooth):
- Take all prescribed medications as directed;
- Follow a gentle diet, avoiding hot and hard foods;
- Do not rinse the mouth during the first 24 hours to preserve the protective blood clot;
- Avoid physical exertion and overheating;
- Make sure no food debris remains in the wound;
- If swelling, pain, or lack of improvement occurs, consult a doctor immediately.
Cost of Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The price of extraction for a retained eighth tooth is calculated individually. The total cost depends on factors such as:
- The location and depth of the tooth;
- The complexity of surgical access;
- Whether tissue sectioning is required;
- The use of additional imaging, like CT scans;
- Type of anesthesia and medications used.
You can undergo tooth extraction of any complexity at Dynasty Stomatology. The surgery is performed by an experienced dentist using specialized tools and materials in a comfortable setting. We strictly follow safety protocols and apply the latest medical technologies.
Appointments are available via the online form or by phone. Contact us, and we will provide the most suitable solution, tailored to your specific case.