Expose and Bond Impacted Teeth
Sometimes a permanent tooth does not erupt into the mouth as expected and remains trapped beneath the gum tissue or bone. This is particularly common with canine teeth and can interfere with proper alignment and orthodontic treatment.
Dr. Christopher Duplaga provides expose and bond procedures at Center for Oral Surgery in coordination with orthodontic treatment. The procedure helps create access to the impacted tooth so it can gradually be guided into its proper position.
Our team works closely with the patient’s orthodontist to help ensure surgical and orthodontic treatment stay coordinated.
Why Teeth Become Impacted
A tooth may become impacted for several reasons, including limited space, abnormal positioning, or an obstruction preventing normal eruption.
Signs or circumstances that may lead to evaluation include:
- A permanent tooth that has not erupted
- An unusual eruption pattern
- Crowding
- Orthodontic concerns
- A retained baby tooth
- An impacted canine identified on imaging
Imaging helps determine the position of the tooth and its relationship to nearby roots and other anatomical structures.
Coordinating With Orthodontic Care
Expose and bond treatment is typically planned together by the oral surgeon and orthodontist.
Before surgery, the orthodontist creates enough space for the impacted tooth to move into position. Dr. Duplaga then evaluates the location of the tooth and determines the surgical approach needed to access it.
After treatment, the orthodontist gradually applies controlled forces to guide the tooth into alignment.
Guiding the Tooth Into Position
During Treatment
A small opening is created to expose the impacted tooth. An orthodontic attachment is then bonded to the tooth so it can be connected to the patient’s orthodontic appliance.
The exact technique depends on the location and position of the impacted tooth.
After Surgery
Patients return to their orthodontist after the surgical site begins healing so the process of guiding the tooth into position can continue.
Our office will provide instructions for caring for the surgical area and explain what to expect following the procedure.
Impacted Tooth Care Near You
Patients from throughout the region visit our Wheeling office for expose and bond procedures coordinated with orthodontic treatment.
We serve families from:
- Moundsville, WV
- New Martinsville, WV
- Weirton, WV
- St. Clairsville, OH
- Steubenville, OH
- Washington, PA
If an orthodontist has identified an impacted tooth that requires surgical exposure, our team can help coordinate treatment.
Make an Appointment
If you have been referred for oral surgery, are experiencing a dental concern, or want to learn more about dental implant treatment, contact Center for Oral Surgery in Wheeling, WV.
Our team can help you schedule an evaluation and determine the next step in your care.