Impacted Tooth Exposure in Houston, TX
What Is Impacted Tooth Exposure?
Impacted tooth exposure is a surgical procedure used to uncover teeth that have failed to erupt properly—most commonly the impacted canines. These teeth may be blocked by other teeth, bone, or soft tissue, and without guided exposure, they may remain trapped beneath the gums. This can cause misalignment, crowding, and long-term oral health complications.
At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, we work closely with orthodontists and general dentists to expose impacted teeth and create a path for proper eruption. Our team uses advanced imaging and minimally invasive surgical techniques to ensure precision, safety, and optimal outcomes for patients of all ages.
Why Impacted Canines Require Treatment
The upper canine teeth (also called cuspids) are essential for proper bite alignment and aesthetic balance. When these teeth become impacted and remain under the gum or bone, it can lead to:
- Overcrowding of nearby teeth
- Delayed or failed eruption of permanent teeth
- Gum inflammation or cyst formation
- Interference with orthodontic treatment
- Bite misalignment or spacing issues
Because impacted canines typically develop during early adolescence, early diagnosis and treatment are critical. Exposing these teeth allows your orthodontist to gently guide them into position using braces or other appliances.
Explore our oral surgery services for other related procedures, including tooth extractions and orthodontic anchorage device placement.
How the Exposure Procedure Works
The procedure is tailored to each patient’s needs and is often done in coordination with an orthodontist who will move the exposed tooth into its proper place over time.
- Diagnostic Planning
We begin with a clinical exam and 3D digital imaging to determine the exact position of the impacted tooth. - Surgical Exposure
Under local anesthesia—and with sedation options available—the gum tissue and, if necessary, bone covering the impacted tooth is carefully removed. - Attachment of Orthodontic Bracket
In many cases, a small bracket and chain are bonded to the tooth, allowing your orthodontist to begin guided eruption over several months. - Post-Surgical Care
Our team provides detailed instructions for healing and collaborates with your orthodontist to monitor tooth movement and ensure long-term success.
This procedure may be combined with frenectomy or vestibuloplasty if soft tissue interference is contributing to the impaction.
Benefits of Early Impacted Tooth Exposure
Timely treatment offers both functional and cosmetic benefits, especially when it comes to preserving the natural tooth and avoiding extraction or prosthetics. Benefits include:
- Preserving natural tooth structure
- Preventing shifting or crowding of adjacent teeth
- Reducing the need for future restorative procedures
- Supporting full orthodontic correction
- Enhancing smile aesthetics and bite function
If you’re already undergoing orthodontic treatment, our office can coordinate directly with your orthodontist to streamline care and minimize interruptions in your treatment timeline.
Surgical Expertise in North Houston
Our surgeons, Dr. Mack Coker and Dr. Daniel Ho, are highly experienced in handling complex surgical exposures of impacted teeth, including high-positioned or deeply embedded canines. Patients throughout Champion Forest, Kleinwood, Memorial Northwest, and Greenwood Forest choose us for:
- Precise diagnosis using cone beam CT scans
- Gentle and minimally invasive surgical techniques
- Coordinated care with referring orthodontists
- Advanced post-operative support and follow-up
We also offer oral cancer screenings and biopsy services if any abnormal tissue is found near the impacted tooth.
FAQs About Impacted Tooth Exposure
What causes a tooth to become impacted?
Impaction usually occurs when there’s not enough space for the tooth to erupt or when other teeth, bone, or tissue obstruct its path. Genetics and delayed tooth development are also contributing factors.
Is this procedure only for canines?
While impacted canines are the most common, other teeth—such as premolars or incisors—can also be impacted and may require surgical exposure depending on the orthodontic treatment plan.
Does the procedure hurt?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia, and sedation is available if needed. Most patients report only mild discomfort afterward, which is manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
Will I need braces after the procedure?
In most cases, yes. The exposed tooth is typically guided into its correct position by an orthodontist using brackets and wires. The exposure procedure simply creates the access needed for movement.
What if the impacted tooth doesn’t move?
In rare cases, severely impacted teeth may not respond to guided movement. If so, tooth extraction and implant-supported restorations may be considered.
Schedule a Consultation for Impacted Tooth Exposure
If you or your child has an unerupted tooth that’s affecting bite alignment or delaying orthodontic progress, North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants is here to help. Call (281) 444-4704 or request an appointment today with Dr. Mack Coker or Dr. Daniel Ho.