How to Deal with Impacted or Partially Erupted Wisdom Teeth

Your wisdom teeth, medically known as the third molars, are the last teeth to erupt within the smile. Their arrival typically occurs when patients are late teenagers or young adults. Unfortunately, these teeth are known for becoming problematic for many patients. The wisdom teeth may become impacted due to lack of space to erupt through the gum line, causing patients pain when the wisdom tooth is trying to come in. Additionally, wisdom teeth that partially erupt may be susceptible to cavities and periodontal disease because they are far back in the mouth. San Jose, California area patients, dealing with impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth will want to visit Natalie K. Provenzano, DDS, Inc, to discuss possible removal.

What can be done about wisdom teeth?

Our ancestors needed the wisdom teeth to enjoy foods such as meat. However, now, we no longer require these teeth due to the changes in our diet. Because they are often difficult to push through the gum line and contribute to problems, many patients elect to remove them from the mouth permanently. There is nothing wrong with doing this, as it is better to have them removed than to wait for them to cause problems to the patient’s health.

How is removal done?

Removal is done with oral surgery or simple extraction, depending on the position of the wisdom tooth when removal is performed. Teeth that are impacted underneath the gum line will benefit from removal through surgical extraction. In contrast, wisdom teeth that have erupted can be pulled during a simple procedure in the dental office. Oftentimes, extraction by a specialist dentist, known as an Oral Surgeon, is recommended. Dr. Simel is our in-house specialist Oral Surgeon and has gone through extensive post-dental training. He is capable of handling simple extractions as well as more difficult surgical extractions, and offers IV sedation for patient comfort.

Learn more about wisdom teeth and wisdom teeth removal

If you have an impacted molar or a partially erupted wisdom tooth, it is crucial that you learn more about concerns that often arise with these particular teeth. San Jose, California area patients can book an appointment with Drs. Provenzano, and Simel to discuss their concerns. Call (408) 226-2542 to request a visit with our team at 6020 Hellyer Avenue, Suite #100. We are proud to serve the areas of Morgan Hill, Gilroy, Fremont, and Los Gatos, California.

Frequently asked questions

What is an impacted wisdom tooth?

Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars at the rear of the mouth that do not have enough space to erupt or develop normally, giving patients discomfort as the wisdom tooth attempts to emerge.

How is an impacted wisdom tooth diagnosed?

An impacted wisdom tooth can be diagnosed through a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. Dental X-rays can indicate the existence of impacted teeth.

What are the treatment options for an impacted wisdom tooth?

Impacted wisdom teeth causing discomfort or other dental issues are generally surgically removed (extracted).

How long does recovering from impacted wisdom tooth extraction take?

It may take up to two weeks to recuperate following surgery to remove your wisdom tooth or teeth.

Is there any way to prevent an impacted wisdom tooth from occurring?

Although you cannot prevent an impaction, having regular six-month dental appointments for cleaning and exams allows your dentist to monitor the growth and emergence of your wisdom teeth.

Dr. Natalie Provenzano

Dr. Natalie Provenzano

Dr. Simel

Dr. Or Simel


Dr. Natalie Provenzano is a renowned dentist in San Jose, California. With associate, Oral Surgeon Dr. Or Simel, they provide exceptional general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services to patients of all ages.

Dr. Provenzano has been practicing dentistry since 2002 when she graduated from the University of Southern California Dental School in the class’ top 10. She served on the school’s ethics committee and was a member of the Oral Sedation Team and the National Dental Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon. After graduating, Dr. Provenzano was the recipient of the American Association of Women Dentist’s “Female Dentist of the Year” Award.

Also a graduate of Loyola Marymount University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Biology, Dr. Provenzano was an active member of Ignatians Service Organization and Delta Gamma Fraternity, with the distinction of being chosen for Order of Omega and Delta Sigma Nu Honor Societies.