If you have an impacted canine tooth, your orthodontist or general dentist may recommend that you see an oral surgeon for exposure of the tooth. An impacted canine tooth can usually be discovered with a thorough clinical and radiographic exam.
One of the most common treatments for impacted canine teeth is a method called exposure and bonding. Your orthodontist and oral surgeon work together to ensure the proper alignment of the rest of the teeth to allow the impacted tooth to come in.
The orthodontist prepares the mouth by moving the fully grown teeth into their correct position in the mouth, leaving room for the impacted tooth to grow into its natural position. Next, the oral surgeon will push the gum tissue back, exposing the impacted tooth, and remove the bone overlying the tooth. The crown portion of the canine tooth can then be exposed, and a bracket and small chain can be temporarily bonded to it. After the procedure, the orthodontist will utilize this chain to guide the eruption of the canine so that normal form and function may be achieved. Occasionally, the orthodontic bracket and chain may need to be repositioned by the oral surgeon to allow complete movement of the impacted tooth.
The surgical procedure to expose an impacted tooth is very straightforward. Patients can expect an in-office procedure and anesthesia to aid in any pre-surgical anxiety or discomfort. Like with any dental or oral surgery procedure, patients can expect some discomfort and slight residual bleeding localized around the surgical site(s).
If you are in need of an exposure and bonding treatment for an impacted canine tooth or multiple canine teeth, we encourage you to contact our office to schedule an initial consultation. The highly skilled team at Northern Westchester Oral Surgery have many options for impacted tooth treatment and are happy to review your individual case to develop an effective treatment plan.