Periodontal Diseases

Exposure of Impacted Teeth

There are times when teeth do not erupt into the mouth at the proper time and there are some teeth that remain stuck in the bone and never erupt into the mouth on their own. If this happens the teeth must be exposed (uncovered) surgically. Often, this is first noted by the orthodontist, who requests the exposure of the teeth that are stuck.

It is most important to determine the exact location of the teeth. Dr. Silberg will use several digital x-rays to determine if the location is on the outside surface or the inside surface of the bone. Then, he will numb the area, lift the gum, expose the teeth and properly manage the gum tissue. If possible, he will also bond the orthodontic bracket onto the teeth.

	After one year of orthodontic treatment two permanent teeth had not yet erupted into Ricky’s mouth. The orthodontist felt that it was not in Ricky’s best interest to delay treatment waiting longer for the teeth to come down. Ricky was referred to have the two teeth surgically exposed and brackets bonded onto them. This first picture shows that the teeth were still under the gum.
	This picture was taken 2 weeks after the teeth were exposed. You can see that the gum tissue is still a bit red but is healing well. Also, please note that all of the gum tissue was preserved and raised above the teeth. This is critically important so that the teeth have enough gum once they reach their final positions. A bracket has been bonded onto one of the teeth. The orthodontist will attach an elastic cord to the brackets and guide the teeth into position.
	This last photo shows the teeth in final position at the completion of the orthodontics. Note the amount and the blending of the gum tissues.