Impaction (dental)
The state of a tooth that has failed to erupt fully into its functional position due to obstruction by adjacent teeth, bone, or soft tissue.
Full Definition
Dental impaction describes a tooth that is prevented from erupting into its normal arch position, remaining partially or fully within the alveolar bone or soft tissue. Impactions are classified by their position relative to surrounding structures: soft tissue, partial bony, or full bony. Further classification describes the angulation of the impacted tooth—vertical, horizontal, mesioangular, or distoangular—most commonly applied to mandibular third molars. In clinical documentation, editors must accurately transcribe the full classification (e.g., 'full-bony mesioangular impaction') as each element affects surgical complexity and coding. 'Impaction' should not be confused with 'food impaction,' a periodontal term describing food packing between teeth.
Usage
Usage note: Always qualify with position and angulation type in surgical documentation (e.g., 'full-bony horizontal impaction'). Do not confuse with the periodontal term 'food impaction.'
In Context
- "Radiographic assessment revealed a mesioangular, partial-bony impaction of the mandibular left third molar." — Panoramic radiograph report
- "The consent form described the surgical risks associated with removal of a full-bony impaction adjacent to the inferior alveolar nerve." — Informed consent document