Overview
About This Procedure
An impacted tooth is one that has been unable to fully erupt into its proper position in the dental arch. While wisdom teeth are the most commonly impacted, canines and premolars can also become impacted — remaining partially or fully buried beneath the gum and bone. Left untreated, impacted teeth can cause pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, cyst formation, and misalignment of the bite.
The management of impacted teeth — other than wisdom teeth — often involves a collaborative approach between the oral surgeon and an orthodontist. Rather than extracting the tooth, the goal is frequently to expose it surgically and guide it into its correct position in the arch through orthodontic treatment. This approach preserves a natural tooth that would otherwise be lost, maintaining the integrity of the bite and avoiding the need for future replacement.
The Process
What to Expect
Treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation including cone beam CT imaging to determine the exact position, depth, and orientation of the impacted tooth and its relationship to adjacent teeth, nerves, and bone. If surgical exposure is planned, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation available for comfort.
During the procedure, a small flap of gum tissue is opened to expose the crown of the impacted tooth. In cases where orthodontic guidance is planned, a small bracket and gold chain are bonded to the tooth before the flap is closed. The chain is attached to the orthodontic appliance, which applies gentle, continuous force to gradually guide the tooth into its proper position over the course of several months. In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, surgical removal is performed with the same careful, tissue-sparing technique used for other extractions.
Outcomes
Results & Long-Term Care
When surgical exposure and orthodontic guidance are successful, the result is a fully functional natural tooth in its correct position — an outcome that avoids the need for an implant or bridge and preserves the natural dentition. Success rates are highest when treatment is initiated at the appropriate time, which is why early evaluation by both an oral surgeon and orthodontist is recommended for children and adolescents with impacted canines or premolars.
Ready to Learn More?
Schedule a Consultation
If you or your child has been told that a tooth is impacted or has failed to erupt, early evaluation is key. NorthStar Implant Dentistry provides expert surgical assessment and treatment of impacted teeth, working in close coordination with your orthodontist to develop the best possible plan. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.