Expose and Bond
Most permanent teeth erupt by the early teenage years. Occasionally, teeth do not erupt normally and remain under the gum. When this happens, it's called an impacted tooth. This condition is often diagnosed and involved in orthodontic treatment of young patients. While extraction is traditionally the prescribed treatment for an impacted tooth, in many cases, teeth that were previously considered hopelessly impacted and condemned to removal can now be saved.
Uncovering and bonding impacted teeth involves exposing the problematic tooth through the gum and boney tissues. In some cases, an orthodontic button can be applied to the exposed tooth. This button allows the orthodontist to gently place traction on the impacted tooth and guide it to its proper position. In other cases, it is possible to merely uncover the tooth, which may stimulate the natural eruption process to resume on its own.
Usually, this combined effort between an orthodontist and one of our oral and maxillofacial surgeons will successfully correct impacted teeth.
Reserve Your Appointment
Whether you come to us for oral surgery on referral from your general dentist, or you would like to explore the possibility of dental implants, non-surgical cosmetic facial procedures, sleep apnea therapy, or TMJ dysfunction and headache relief, our doctors and team will be pleased to welcome you to our office. We will gain a comprehensive understanding of your oral health and history, as well as your concerns and goals, then provide the information and consultation you need to make wise decisions about the future of your oral health. Call today to reserve your initial consultation with Dr. Oneacre or Dr. Shillingburg.
