What is Tooth Uncovery?

Tooth impaction is a condition traditionally associated with wisdom teeth, but did you know that it actually could occur with any tooth in your mouth? When the canine teeth fail to erupt properly, this periodontal procedure can gently bring the tooth down so that it can be included in the braces treatment. This surgery is recommended if the tooth in question has not erupted by the time the patient is 13 to 14 years old.

There are many reasons a permanent tooth can become impacted and fail to erupt. Extra thick gum and bone, crowded teeth, crossbites, improper tooth eruption sequence and genetics are just some of the causes. When the patient is in need of braces, it is necessary that the hidden tooth be brought down for inclusion in the orthodontic treatment.

The periodontist will conduct a thorough examination, including x-rays, to discover the exact location of the tooth that didn’t erupt, as well as the cause of the impaction. If the tooth has moved into the lip or side of the jawbone, first the keratinized gum tissue will be cut away to gain access. To prevent bone loss and gum recession, additional periodontal procedures may be performed at this time. For impactions occurring in the palate, the extra bone will be cut away to expose the hidden tooth. In both procedures, a bracket will be bonded to the newly revealed tooth and it will be attached to the braces with a power chain.  The chain will slowly pull the tooth into its proper position so that it can be included in the braces.

Tooth uncovery or surgical tooth exposure has enjoyed a high success rate for patients experiencing tooth impactions. For the first few days following the procedure, you can expect to feel minor discomfort and swelling that can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication.  In about two weeks following the surgery, a rubber band will be installed at a follow-up appointment to activate the eruption process.