Canine teeth and wisdom teeth can become impacted. Wisdom teeth are unnecessary for proper oral function and are simply removed, while canine teeth need to be saved and guided into their proper place. While an orthodontist can usually align the surrounding teeth to allow impacted canines to erupt normally, sometimes abnormalities or other teeth can get in the way and cause complications. In these cases, you may be referred to an oral surgeon at Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center in Flint, Saginaw, Midland, Owosso, Oxford, and Bay City.
Canine teeth are important because they have the longest and strongest roots and help guide the alignment of the other teeth. Our oral surgeons will work with your orthodontist to expose the teeth and guide them into proper alignment. This procedure is called expose and bond.
Impacted Canine Treatment
Expose and Bond Procedure
When you visit us for your consultation, we will take 3D scans of your mouth to get a clear, detailed look at your teeth. Our surgeons offer several options for anesthesia to ensure you feel comfortable during any surgical procedure.
Your oral surgeon and orthodontist will work as a team to expose your impacted canine tooth and guide it into its proper position. First, your orthodontist will prepare the mouth using braces. Once the eruption path is clear, your oral surgeon will surgically expose the tooth by pushing back the gum tissue and then attaching a tiny bracket and chain to the tooth. A few days after surgery, your orthodontist will attach this chain to small bands that will apply a light, pulling pressure to your tooth. Eventually, this will bring the canine into its proper position.
Meet Your Doctors
Treatment for Impacted Teeth
Oral surgeons are the professionals that dentists refer their patients to for treating impacted canines because they have undergone many additional years of surgical and anesthesia training. At Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center, our team utilizes advanced 3D imaging technology to track the progress of impacted teeth throughout treatment, ensuring the tooth will achieve proper position and function. Contact us in Flint, Saginaw, Bay City, Owosso, Oxford, or Midland, MI, to schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled surgeons.
Types of Anesthesia
We offer a variety of anesthetic options to make your experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible. The method of sedation used depends on your preference, the nature of the procedure, and your medical history.
Local, Nitrous Oxide, and IV Sedation