Treatment options for impacted teeth.

BACKGROUND: A compilation of treatment options for impacted teeth is presented to assist dentists in discussing the sequelae of impacted teeth as well as the complications of treatment with their patients. OVERVIEW: A differential diagnosis for an impacted tooth is not possible without clinical assessment. However, an ankylosed tooth or a tooth with failure of its eruption mechanism may be mistaken for an impacted tooth. This review of national and international dental texts, journals and publications concerning impacted teeth spans more than 50 years. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Treatment options for the management of impacted teeth are separated into four categories: observation, intervention, relocation and extraction. The indications, contraindications and complications of each option are presented. This information will help the clinician identify developmental conditions associated with an increased probability of tooth impaction and assess available treatment options.