Impacted teeth occur when a tooth fails to fully emerge through the gumline, often due to lack of space or improper positioning. While wisdom teeth are commonly impacted, other teeth—especially canines—can also become trapped beneath the gums. If left untreated, impacted teeth can cause pain, crowding, damage to neighboring teeth, or even cyst formation. As an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon, I specialize in precise, effective treatment options to help guide impacted teeth into their proper position and ensure long-term oral health.
Treatment Options for Impacted Teeth
When an impacted tooth needs to be guided into proper alignment rather than extracted, surgical intervention is often necessary. Two common procedures used in collaboration with orthodontic treatment are exposure & bond and temporary anchorage device (TAD) placement.
Exposure & Bond
The exposure and bond procedure is performed when an impacted tooth needs assistance erupting into its proper place. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the gum to expose the trapped tooth. A small orthodontic bracket and chain are then bonded to the tooth, allowing an orthodontist to gradually guide it into position using gentle pressure over time. This technique is commonly used for impacted canines and other essential teeth that need to be preserved for a healthy, functional bite.
Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD) Placement
Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) are small, biocompatible titanium screws placed in the jawbone to serve as stable anchor points for orthodontic movement. In cases of impacted teeth, TADs provide additional control and efficiency in guiding the tooth into alignment. The placement of a TAD is a quick and minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia, and it can significantly improve the success of orthodontic treatment for impacted teeth.
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What can I expect for an impacted tooth treatment?
If you have an impacted tooth, we will conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging, to determine the best treatment plan. If the tooth needs to be guided into position, we may perform an exposure & bond procedure or place a TAD to assist your orthodontist in moving the tooth. If the impacted tooth is causing pain or damaging nearby structures, extraction may be recommended instead. We will discuss all options and create a plan tailored to your needs.
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure depends on the treatment approach. For exposure & bond, a small incision is made to uncover the impacted tooth, and an orthodontic attachment is placed to help guide its eruption. For TAD placement, a small titanium anchor is inserted into the bone to provide support for orthodontic movement. Both procedures are performed with local anesthesia for comfort and are typically completed in a short, outpatient visit.
How is the Recovery and Aftercare?
Recovery is usually mild, with minor swelling or discomfort for a few days. Most patients return to normal activities quickly. You will receive detailed aftercare instructions, including how to keep the area clean and manage any temporary soreness. If a TAD is placed, we will provide guidance on its care, and your orthodontist will monitor its use throughout treatment. Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and progress.