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Exposure of Impacted Canine

After Impacted Canine Exposure surgery Instruction
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Video: Surgery and Orthodontics Treatments of Impacted Canine Exposure

Exposure of Impacted Canines

An impacted tooth occurs when a tooth is “stuck” and cannot emerge properly. While impacted wisdom teeth are common, the maxillary cuspid (upper eyetooth) is the second most frequently impacted tooth. Due to its critical role in your smile, it’s important to address an impacted cuspid promptly to guide it into its proper position in the dental arch.

Early Recognition is Key to Successful Treatment

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have a dental evaluation by the age of seven to determine if all adult teeth are present or if there are any potential issues with tooth eruption. Early detection of impacted eyeteeth can make treatment more effective and less invasive.

If a potential eruption problem is identified, your orthodontist may suggest braces to create space and facilitate the proper eruption of adult teeth. In some cases, referral to an oral surgeon is necessary for the removal of over-retained baby teeth, selected adult teeth, or any extra teeth (supernumerary teeth) that are obstructing the eruption of the eyetooth. With timely intervention, there is a good chance that the impacted eyetooth will emerge naturally.

Exposure & Bracket Placement

In certain situations, an impacted tooth requires surgical exposure and the placement of a bracket to assist its eruption. The oral surgeon will expose the tooth and attach a bracket with a small gold chain. This chain is guided back to the orthodontic arch wire, where it is temporarily secured. Depending on the case, the surgeon may leave the tooth partially exposed by suturing the gum high above it or creating a small window in the gum. In most cases, the gum is returned to its original position, leaving only the chain visible.

After surgery, the patient will return to the orthodontist, where a rubber band is attached to the chain. This creates a gentle pulling force, gradually guiding the impacted tooth into its proper place in the dental arch. This carefully controlled process can take up to a year to complete.

What to Expect from Exposure Surgery

The procedure to expose and bracket an impacted tooth is straightforward and typically performed in the oral surgeon’s office. Most patients undergo the surgery with local anesthesia and laughing gas, though IV sedation is available for those who prefer to be asleep during the procedure. The entire process usually takes about 45 minutes.

Your surgeon will discuss the details of the procedure during your preoperative consultation, ensuring you are fully informed and prepared.

Image: Movement of Canine after Surgery

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Frequently Ask Questions

Treating an impacted canine is crucial because these teeth play a vital role in your dental structure. Canines are essential for biting and guiding your bite into proper alignment. If left untreated, impacted canines can cause misalignment of other teeth, overcrowding, and even damage to adjacent teeth.

An impacted canine is typically diagnosed during a routine dental examination. Your dentist may use X-rays or a 3D imaging scan to determine the position of the tooth and assess whether it is impacted. Early detection is key to effective treatment.

Yes, braces are typically required after the tooth is exposed to help guide the impacted canine into its correct position within the dental arch. The surgeon will work with patient’s Orthodontist to manage this process. The process of moving the tooth can take several months to a year, depending on the complexity of the case.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, laughing gas, or IV sedation, so you should not feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort and swelling are normal after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses.

The exposure and bracketing of an impacted canine typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The time may vary depending on the complexity of the impaction and whether any additional procedures, such as the removal of surrounding teeth or tissue, are required.

Recovery time is generally quick. Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days following the procedure, but normal activities can usually be resumed within a day or two. Full healing of the surgical site will take a few weeks, but this won’t interfere with the process of moving the tooth into place.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved, including infection, bleeding, and discomfort. There is also a small risk that the tooth may not move as expected, or that adjacent teeth could be affected. However, these risks are generally low, and your surgeon will take steps to minimize them.

The treatment for impacted canines is highly successful, especially when detected and treated early. With the combined efforts of your orthodontist and oral surgeon, the impacted tooth can often be guided into its proper position, preserving your dental health and appearance.

While it may not always be possible to prevent an impacted canine, early detection and intervention can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. Regular dental check-ups, especially during childhood, allow your dentist to monitor tooth development and take action before serious issues arise.

After surgery, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions. You may experience mild swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers. A soft diet is recommended for the first few days. Good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection, but you should avoid brushing the surgical site until it has begun to heal.

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