The primary causes of impacted molars include:

Insufficient Space: The most common reason for impaction is a lack of space in the jaw. 

If the jaw is too small to accommodate the molars, they may become trapped.

Jaw Size and Tooth Size: Genetic factors can influence the size of the jaw and teeth, leading to discrepancies

 that result in impaction.

Position of Adjacent Teeth: The positioning of adjacent teeth can block the eruption path of the molars, 

causing them to become impacted.

Developmental Factors: As teeth develop, certain conditions or irregularities can prevent proper eruption.

Symptoms

Pain and Discomfort: Persistent pain in the back of the mouth or jaw can occur, especially when chewing.

Swelling and Inflammation: Swelling of the gums around the impacted tooth may accompany redness 

and tenderness.

Difficulty Opening the Mouth: Limited mouth opening can result from pain or swelling in the area.

Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: An impacted tooth may lead to infection, resulting in bad breath or 

a foul taste in the mouth.

Headaches or Jaw Pain: Referred pain from an impacted molar can manifest as headaches or tension in the jaw.

Consequences

If left untreated, impacted molars can lead to several adverse effects:

Infection: The impaction can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infections such as pericoronitis, 

which affects the gum tissue surrounding the tooth.

Cysts or Tumors: Impacted molars may develop cysts or tumors in the jaw, 

which can damage surrounding teeth and bone.

Misalignment of Teeth: The pressure from an impacted tooth can shift adjacent teeth, 

leading to misalignment and bite issues.

Damage to Adjacent Teeth: An impacted molar can exert pressure on neighboring teeth, 

causing them to become damaged or compromised.

Treatment for impacted molars typically involves dental intervention. Common treatment options include:

Monitoring: In some cases, if there are no symptoms or complications, the dentist may choose to monitor 

the impacted molar.

Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended to manage discomfort 

associated with the impaction.

Surgical Extraction: If the impacted molar causes pain, infection, or other complications, 

surgical extraction is often necessary. This procedure is performed by an oral surgeon or dentist.

Antibiotics: If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to manage the infection before 

or after extraction.

Follow-up Care: Post-extraction care is crucial to ensure proper healing and to prevent complications.

In conclusion, impacted molars are a common dental issue that can lead to significant discomfort 

and complications if not addressed. 

By understanding the causes and symptoms, seeking timely dental care, and following appropriate 

treatment protocols, individuals can effectively manage impacted molars and maintain their oral health.