Surgical Exposure and Bonding for Impacted Teeth in Glendale, AZ
An impacted tooth can lead to various oral health issues, including a heightened risk of decay and infection. At Arizona Center for Oral Surgery, our oral surgeon and team offer impacted tooth exposure in Glendale, Arizona, and throughout the Valley to help preserve the health and alignment of your smile. If you believe you may have an impacted tooth, contact us today at 623-931-9197 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gary K. Lines or Dr. Donald R. Hoaglin.
An impacted tooth is one that fails to erupt properly into its correct position in the mouth. After wisdom teeth, the most frequently impacted teeth are the canines, which play a vital role in chewing, guiding your bite, and shaping the aesthetic of your smile. When these teeth become impacted, they can cause damage to adjacent teeth and may lead to complications such as tooth loss, cysts, or tumors. In many cases, our oral surgeon may recommend a procedure known as exposure and bonding to address an impacted canine.
Exposure and bonding is a surgical and orthodontic technique in which the impacted tooth is carefully uncovered, and a small orthodontic bracket is bonded to it. This bracket is attached to a delicate gold chain, which is then connected to a rubber band. Together, they apply light, continuous pressure to gradually guide the tooth into its proper position in the dental arch. The process is slow and controlled, often taking up to a year for full alignment.
Once the tooth has moved into its correct place, our oral surgeon will assess the health of the surrounding gum tissue to ensure that you can chew, speak, and maintain oral hygiene effectively. Sometimes, minor gum surgery may be recommended to strengthen the gum tissue and prevent future issues such as gum recession or inflammation.
To learn more about canine exposure and bonding or to schedule an evaluation, contact Arizona Center for Oral Surgery today. We’re here to help restore both the function and appearance of your smile with expert, personalized care.
Frequently Asked Questions — Impacted Tooth Exposure in Glendale, AZ
1. What is an impacted tooth, and why might I need exposure surgery?
An impacted tooth is a tooth that has become stuck beneath the gum or bone and can’t erupt into its proper position on its own. Common examples include upper canines (eye teeth) or wisdom teeth. Exposure surgery involves uncovering the tooth (and sometimes attaching an orthodontic bracket or chain) so it can be guided or allowed to erupt naturally.
At Arizona Center for Oral Surgery, this procedure helps ensure your tooth can move into its correct place for bite function and aesthetics.
2. Am I a good candidate for impacted tooth exposure in the Phoenix/Valley area?
Many patients who have a tooth that’s been trapped and cannot erupt—yet have good overall oral health and sufficient space—are candidates. However, candidacy depends on factors like the tooth’s position, age, bone condition, and whether orthodontics will be used in tandem.
During your consultation at Arizona Center for Oral Surgery, the team will evaluate your imaging (e.g., 3D scans) and coordinate with your orthodontist if needed.
3. What does the surgery involve and what should I expect during it?
The procedure is generally done in-office under local anesthesia (and sometimes sedation if requested). The surgeon will gently lift the gum and possibly remove a small amount of bone to expose the impacted tooth, and if needed attach a small bracket or chain to help guide eruption.
You’ll be given detailed pre- and post-operative instructions to prepare. Expect the appointment to involve some recovery time afterwards.
4. What is the recovery like, and when can I return to my normal activities in Glendale?
After surgery, mild swelling, some discomfort, and perhaps minor bleeding or ooze from the site are normal. You’ll likely follow a soft diet for a day or two, avoid chewing near the surgical area, and keep up gentle oral hygiene.
Most patients return to light daily routines within a day or two, but full healing and coordination with orthodontic movement (if applicable) may take longer.
5. What are the risks of delaying treatment or not doing exposure surgery?
Leaving an impacted tooth untreated can raise risks of complications such as: infection or cyst formation around the tooth, damage to adjacent teeth, misalignment of bite, or the tooth fusing to the bone making eruption impossible.
By treating early (especially in younger patients), Arizona Center for Oral Surgery helps maximize the chances of a successful outcome and minimize more complex future procedures.