The term impacted teeth refers to teeth that are obstructed from erupting into a normal position. Obstruction usually occurs due to crowding, such as too many teeth for the size of the jaw.
Common impacted teeth include:
The term supernumerary teeth refers to extra teeth.
Removal of impacted teeth may be required to prevent infection or other pathology or be required prior to orthodontic treatment (to straighten teeth).
Surgical exposure of impacted teeth (eg canines) may also be requested prior to orthodontic treatment.