What is an Exposure Surgery Procedure?
Orthodontic exposure surgery is a common procedure used by orthodontists to expose impacted teeth and guide them into their proper positions. This surgery is typically performed on patients who have one or more teeth that have failed to properly erupt from the gums, such as impacted canines or molars.
Before the procedure, the orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s teeth and gums, including X-rays, to determine the location and severity of the impaction. The orthodontist will also evaluate the patient’s overall oral health to ensure they are a good candidate for the surgery.
On the day of the procedure, the patient will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the impacted tooth. In some cases, the patient may also be given a sedative to help them relax.
The orthodontist will then make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth. Depending on the location of the tooth and the severity of the impaction, the orthodontist may also need to remove a small amount of bone tissue to fully expose the tooth.
Once the tooth is fully exposed, the orthodontist will attach a bracket or chain to the tooth and secure it with dental cement. This bracket or chain will serve as an anchor for the orthodontic appliance, such as braces or aligners, to exert pressure and guide the tooth into its proper position.
In some cases, the orthodontist may also need to use a surgical pack to help protect the area and promote healing. The pack is typically made of gauze or a similar material and is placed over the surgical site and secured with dental adhesive.
After the procedure, the patient will be given instructions on how to care for the surgical site and manage any discomfort. This may include avoiding certain foods, such as hard or crunchy foods, for several days to allow the surgical site to heal properly.
The patient may also be given a prescription for pain medication or antibiotics to help manage any pain or prevent infection. It is important for the patient to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and prevent any complications.
Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days following the procedure, although it may take several weeks for the tooth to fully emerge from the gums and begin to move into its proper position.
It is important for patients to continue to receive regular dental check-ups and cleanings following orthodontic exposure surgery to ensure the health and proper alignment of the impacted tooth and surrounding teeth.
In some cases, orthodontic exposure surgery may not be successful in fully exposing the impacted tooth or guiding it into its proper position. In these cases, additional procedures may be necessary, such as orthognathic surgery, to properly align the teeth and improve overall dental health.
Overall, orthodontic exposure surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can help patients achieve proper dental alignment and improve overall oral health. By properly exposing impacted teeth and guiding them into their proper positions, orthodontists can help patients achieve a healthy and beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.