A canine exposure procedure in Arcadia, CA, is a minor oral surgery designed to help an impacted canine tooth erupt into its correct position.
When an adult canine becomes “stuck” under the gum or bone and cannot erupt naturally, this teamwork between our board-certified periodontist and an orthodontist helps guide the tooth into its proper position, resulting in a healthy, confident smile.
Before the procedure begins, local anesthesia is applied to numb the area. In some cases, mild sedation may be offered to help you stay relaxed and calm.
Our periodontist, Dr. Andrew Peterson, will take time to explain each step so you know exactly what to expect. This focus on comfort helps make the experience smooth and stress-free from start to finish.
Once you’re comfortable, Dr. Peterson gently lifts or makes a small incision in the gum above the impacted canine. This allows direct access to the hidden tooth that hasn’t erupted properly.
The goal is to carefully uncover the tooth without disturbing the surrounding gum or bone tissue. Precision at this stage is key to setting up the rest of the procedure for success.
In some cases, a thin layer of bone may still be covering the tooth. If so, we will carefully remove a minimal amount to reveal the tooth’s crown.
This is accomplished with advanced instruments designed to minimize trauma and expedite healing. Once the crown is obvious, the site is ready for the orthodontic attachment step.
After the tooth is exposed, a small orthodontic bracket is bonded directly onto the crown. A delicate gold chain is then attached to the bracket, which will later connect to your orthodontic braces. This setup allows your orthodontist to gently guide the tooth into its proper position over time. It’s a precise and collaborative process that supports both function and aesthetics.
Once the bracket and chain are in place, the gum tissue is repositioned and sutured carefully to promote healing. Typically, only a small portion of the chain remains visible through the gum surface.
This subtle approach protects the area while allowing your orthodontist to gradually guide the tooth’s movement. With proper healing and follow-up, the tooth will eventually align naturally with your smile.
Mild soreness and swelling are normal for a few days. Most patients return to normal routines within a day or two.
Your orthodontist will gradually “pull” the tooth into its correct spot using the chain connected to your braces, a process that takes several months.
Regular visits ensure everything heals well and the tooth moves as planned.
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