Tooth impaction is more common than you might expect. Impaction occurs when a tooth’s growth path is blocked, hindering the tooth from growing into the mouth properly. Wisdom teeth and canine teeth are the most commonly impacted teeth. It's not necessary to keep the wisdom teeth, but the canine teeth are essential to the bite. Therefore, every effort is made to treat impacted canine teeth to grow into their proper place in the mouth. Exposure and bonding is a standard treatment for canine teeth affected by impaction.
Dr. Yang and Dr. Lee routinely treat impacted teeth, including exposure and bonding for impacted canines. If your child requires treatment for their impacted canines, please request a consultation with Foster City Oral Surgery Specialists. With a welcoming and knowledgeable staff, the latest diagnostic and surgical tools, and personalized treatment plans for every patient, Drs. Yang and Lee offer a safe and comfortable experience at their state-of-the-art practice.
Most canine teeth will grow into their proper position in the mouth without any complications. However, dental crowding, abnormal growths, or even baby teeth that have not yet fallen out can cause canine impaction.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children are seen by a dental professional by the age of 7. They can monitor your child's dental growth and development and spot potential issues before they compromise your child’s oral health. If your dentist suspects impaction, he or she will refer you to an oral surgeon for further treatment. If your oral surgeon is unable to treat the impacted tooth successfully, he or she will discuss other options for tooth replacement, such as dental implants.
Typical treatment for an impacted canine is known as exposure and bonding and performed with the help of an orthodontist. First, your orthodontist will prepare the mouth with braces. They will gently use the braces to move the teeth and create a space for the impacted tooth to grow. Once there is ample space, your oral surgeon will expose the tooth and attach a small bracket and chain. Your orthodontist will use the bracket and chain to guide the impacted tooth into the dental arch.
If you are ready to request a consultation with Dr. Yang or Dr. Lee or are looking for more information, please give our practice a call. Foster City Oral Surgery Specialists offers a broad scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery services, including treatment for impacted canine teeth. Dr. Yang and Dr. Lee treat patients of all ages and conditions. We look forward to meeting you.
