Crown Exposures (for orthodontic purposes)
An impacted tooth is a tooth that is “stuck” and cannot erupt into function. At the time of commencing orthodontic treatment, some permanent teeth are impacted in the jaw. If your orthodontic treatment plan requires assistance in improving access to these teeth, a simple procedure can be employed to expose a path for these permanent teeth to erupt. The gum on top of the impacted tooth will be lifted up to expose the hidden tooth underneath. If there is a baby tooth present, it will be removed at the same time. Once the tooth is exposed, an orthodontic bracket is bonded to the exposed tooth. The bracket will have a miniature gold chain attached to it which is then tied to the orthodontic arch wire temporarily. Sometimes the exposed impacted tooth is left completely uncovered by suturing the gum up high above the tooth or making a window in the gum covering the tooth (on selected cases located on the roof of the mouth). Shortly after surgery (10-14 days) the patient will return to the orthodontist who will begin the process of moving the tooth into its proper place in the dental arch. Once the tooth is moved into the arch in its final position, the gum around it will be evaluated to make sure it is sufficiently strong and healthy to last for a lifetime of chewing and tooth brushing. In some circumstances, especially those where the tooth had to be moved a long distance, there may be some minor “gum surgery” required to add bulk to the gum tissue over the relocated tooth so it remains healthy during normal function. Your dentist or orthodontist will explain this situation to you if it applies to your specific case.