SURGICAL CARE THAT SUPPORTS YOUR SMILE

Helping your smile find its way

Impacted tooth exposure helps a tooth that hasn’t emerged reach its proper place with coordinated surgical and orthodontic care.

  • Treatment tailored to your needs
  • A coordinated orthodontic approach
  • Guidance at every step
SURGICAL CARE THAT SUPPORTS YOUR SMILE

A little help for a tooth beneath the surface.

An impacted tooth is one that cannot fully emerge into the mouth. Sometimes a tooth is blocked, has limited space, or develops in a position that prevents it from coming in naturally.

When the tooth can be preserved, surgical exposure may allow your orthodontist to guide it into alignment. This treatment is often used for impacted canine teeth, which help shape and support your bite.

Two specialties.
One treatment plan.

Your oral surgeon creates access to the tooth. Your orthodontist guides its movement. Together, these steps support the goal of bringing your natural tooth into position.

WHAT TO EXPECT

A clear path forward.

Your treatment plan depends on the tooth’s location, your oral health, and your orthodontic needs.

1

Evaluate & plan

An examination and appropriate imaging help assess the tooth’s position. Your surgeon and orthodontist determine whether exposure is a suitable option and discuss anesthesia.

2

Expose & bond

Your surgeon uncovers the tooth. When indicated, a small orthodontic attachment and chain are bonded to it to support the next phase of treatment.

3

Guide & align

After surgery, your orthodontist uses controlled force to gradually move the tooth. Follow-up visits monitor healing and progress over time.

AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE

Recovery with a plan. Support along the way.

Some swelling and discomfort can occur after exposure. Your care team will provide instructions specific to your procedure and anesthesia.

  • Follow your instructions for eating and oral hygiene.
  • Take medication only as directed by your care team.
  • Avoid pulling on or disturbing the attachment or chain.
  • Keep your surgical and orthodontic follow-up visits.

KEEP IN MIND

Healing and tooth movement happen on different timelines.

The surgical site heals first, while orthodontic movement continues gradually. The overall treatment time varies with the tooth’s position and response to treatment.

Contact your care team if an attachment loosens, symptoms worsen, or you have questions about healing.

YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

Feel informed.
Feel prepared.

Here are a few things patients and parents often want to know before treatment.

1Is exposure the same as removing a tooth?
No. Exposure provides access to a tooth so it may be guided into position. Extraction removes a tooth. Your surgeon will explain which approach fits your situation.
2Will I need braces?
Exposure is often part of an orthodontic treatment plan. Your orthodontist will explain the appliances and tooth movement needed for your case.
3Will I be comfortable during the procedure?
Your surgeon will discuss appropriate local anesthesia and any sedation options based on your needs, health history, and planned procedure.
4Can every impacted tooth be brought into place?
No. The tooth’s location, age, available space, and surrounding structures affect what is possible. An evaluation helps determine the most appropriate treatment.
5What should I bring to my consultation?
Bring your referral, available imaging, medication list, and relevant medical and dental history. Ask the office about any additional requirements when scheduling.