An impacted tooth is a tooth that is stuck beneath the gums. Impaction can happen to any tooth and can be completely or partially stuck under the gums. Wisdom teeth and the canines are the most commonly impacted teeth.
Wisdom teeth are often removed, whether they are impacted or not. However, canine teeth (the pointed teeth at the corners of the mouth) help to align the bite and chew food and are typically not removed. Oral surgeons and orthodontists will work to expose a canine tooth so that it can move into its proper place.
Canine Impaction
Canine teeth come in around the age of 11 or 12. They are the last primary teeth to grow in. Exposing an impacted tooth as early as possible allows the greatest chance for the tooth to grow in normally. Your dentist can monitor the development of your child’s teeth with regular checkups. If an impacted tooth is suspected, your dentist can refer you to an oral surgeon for further treatment. An X-ray or CT scan can confirm an impacted canine.
Exposure and bonding is a common treatment for an impacted canine. First, your orthodontist will slowly shift the surrounding teeth into their new positions and create a space for the impacted tooth to grow in. Then, your oral surgeon will expose the tooth by removing any gum tissue or bone that is in front of the tooth. A bracket with a small chain is then bonded to the tooth. Your orthodontist will use the chain to guide the tooth as it moves in.
Exposing an impacted canine is usually a simple in-office procedure. IV or local anesthesia is often used during the treatment. Some discomfort and slight residual bleeding are to be expected.
Impacted Tooth Exposure in Slidell & Mandeville, LA
We encourage you to call Northlake Oral & Facial Surgery if you have been recommended for the treatment of an impacted tooth. We have offices in Slidell, LA, and Mandeville, LA for your convenience. We look forward to caring for you and your family.