Canine Exposure
What to do if you have unerupted canine? When a tooth fails to emerge through the gums, it is considered to be an impacted tooth. This commonly occurs in the case of canine teeth. It is important to treat an impacted tooth in order to prevent the improper eruption of nearby teeth, cyst formation, possible infection or other negative changes in the jaw.
In order to determine the correct treatment for you, your dentist will examine your teeth and radiographs to determine the position of the impacted tooth as well as the condition of your gums. One of the treatment options is to surgically expose the tooth in order to guide it to the right position in your jaw. In most cases, you will need to have space created in your jaw through orthodontics prior to the surgical treatment.
What’s involved with unerupted canine?
Depending on the location, there are different methods of accomplishing the surgical exposure of your tooth. If the impacted canine is close to the palate, your dentist will have two options:
The first option is for dentist to expose the tooth in order to allow it to erupt on its own. Once the surgery is completed, your dentist may place a protective dressing over the surgical site while it heals. This method will allow the canine tooth to emerge until it is at the level of the adjacent teeth, after which the teeth can be aligned with braces.
The second option is for your dentist to expose the tooth and then attach an orthodontic bracket to it. Either at the time of surgery or shortly after in order to help guide the tooth to the level of the adjacent teeth.
Outcomes
If stitches were used during your surgical procedure, you may need to have them removed 1 to 2 weeks post-operatively. Regardless of which treatment you have received, you must avoid chewing on the surgical site for 2 weeks following your surgery. You will be issued with detailed post- operative list.
Please note that this photo has not been enhanced and has been used with the patients permission.
Cost
Having healthy teeth and gums is the best investment you can make. Once you have met our team we will provide you with a cost based on the agreed treatment plan. We will also discuss if you need sedation and if the treatment is extensive you may need our overnight package. We can also discuss various methods of payment to suit you.
For complete payment terms please see our fee guide. To book an appointment please email us or tel: (01) 678 9904