Exposure & Bonding

The canine teeth are important for bite alignment and chewing function. However, a canine tooth that is impacted cannot erupt properly. Dr. Livesay, Dr. Carey, and Dr. Naselsker can guide an impacted tooth into the dental arch with a treatment known as exposure and bonding.

We perform a wide scope of oral surgery services, including impacted canine treatment, for patients of all ages. If your child has an impacted canine tooth, we encourage you to contact our practice and schedule an appointment.

What Is an Impacted Tooth?

An impacted tooth is a tooth that is partially or completely trapped beneath the gum tissue, and therefore cannot erupt properly. Canine teeth are commonly affected by impaction.

Canine teeth tend to erupt between the ages of 9 and 12. Impaction may be suspected if a canine tooth has not erupted by the time the child is in their early teen years, and/or their baby canine tooth has not yet fallen out.

Patients with an impacted tooth may have:

• Pain, redness, or swelling of the gums
• Bad breath
• Crooked or sideways tooth eruption

A general dentist often diagnoses an impacted tooth during a regular checkup. However, if your child is experiencing symptoms of impaction, please contact our office. 

Exposure and Bonding Treatment

Treating an impacted canine is coordinated between your orthodontist and your oral surgeon. When you come to Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Studio, we will evaluate your oral health, take 3D scans, and create a treatment plan with your orthodontist. We will keep you informed throughout your treatment so you know exactly what to expect at every step.

The surgical procedure will take place in one of our surgical suites. We offer many anesthesia options to ensure your comfort, and will go over your options with you during your consultation. Exposure and bonding first involves surgically exposing the impacted tooth. Once exposed, an orthodontic bracket is bonded to the tooth. A small chain is attached to the bracket, which your orthodontist will use to gently guide the tooth into the dental arch. The process of moving the tooth into place will happen over the course of several months.