Your Choice For Specialized Periodontal Treatment
As a Harvard University and Columbia University trained periodontist in Marin County, CA, Dr. Michael Seda offers a wide range of periodontal and dental implant services to Marin County and San Francisco, CA. We treat referred and non-referred patients in a peaceful, modern setting, and are committed to partnering with all of our patients throughout their treatment. We are committed to exceeding expectations, and provide the highest level of dental care, to achieve the ultimate goal of optimal oral health for all of our patients
Tooth Uncovery & Exposure
Tooth exposure is the term used to describe a procedure wherein your dentist uncovers a permanent tooth that has not erupted. To free the gum from being stuck underneath the bone or impacted by the gum, your periodontist will make a small incision through which your tooth can erupt through. The most common need for tooth exposure occurs when wisdom teeth fail to erupt as a result of being at an angle, overlapping with molars, or due to overcrowding. It is also not uncommon for children to have permanent teeth that fail to erupt and require the need for tooth exposure.
At Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, we offer a wide range of periodontal and dental implant services. We treat referred and non-referred patients in a peaceful, modern setting, and are committed to partnering with all our patients throughout their treatment. We are committed to exceeding expectations and providing the highest level of dental care to achieve the ultimate goal of optimal oral health for all of our patients.
If you have a tooth exposure procedure scheduled or have any questions about the procedure, please contact our staff who will be happy to answer any questions or help you set up an appointment.
Common Causes of Impacted Teeth
An impacted tooth can develop for a variety of reasons, but the most common reasons include:
- Loss of primary canine or prolonged retention
- Arch length or tooth size discrepancies
- Tooth bud is abnormally positioned
- Root dilacerations
- Ankylosis (tooth fused to bone)
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Tooth Exposure Process
Before the procedure begins, your dentist or periodontist will perform an examination to determine the position of the problematic tooth and whether it is impacted buccally (close to the lip) or palatally (towards the roof of the mouth). Your periodontist will take x-rays or scans to determine which approach is best for exposing the tooth.
If it is a simple procedure, your periodontist will begin by lifting the gum tissue over the tooth, which will allow for a bracket to be placed. Following the placement of this bracket, your periodontist will return your gum to its original location and suture it back.
Next, you will schedule a follow up appointment (1-14 days). At this appointment, your periodontist will attach a rubber band to the chain on the bracket and begin a gentle pulling force, which will begin the process of moving the tooth to its proper place. This is a gradual process, but once your tooth has moved to the final position, your periodontist will evaluate your gums to make sure they are healthy and strong.
During the initial procedure, you will most like be given either laughing gas or a local anesthetic, although IV sedation is sometimes an option, though you will need to discuss this with your periodontist.
Post Procedure
Following your tooth exposure procedure, your periodontist will schedule a follow-up visit to make sure that you are healing properly. It is not uncommon for patients to feel some soreness following this procedure. To help alleviate this pain, you can take over-the-counter pain-relieving medication. It is also a good idea to purchase a soft bristle toothbrush and be gentle when you do brush your teeth.
The most important thing you can do following your procedure is to continue to practice good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice daily and for at least two minutes each time and continue flossing regularly. If you have not yet, talk to Dr. Seda or your dentist about a recommended antimicrobial mouth rinse.
Along with these important at home care practices, the best thing you can do to continue enjoying your healthy smile is to schedule regular visits every six months. During these routine checkups, your periodontist can conduct deep cleanings and monitor the overall state of your oral health, catching issues before they develop. By maintaining these habits, you will be well on your way to preventing additional issues from developing in the future.
Benefits of Tooth Exposure
There are several benefits associated with undergoing a tooth exposure procedure. Failing to address impacted teeth creates pressure on the mouth, which can cause surrounding teeth to become damaged or overloaded. By exposing the tooth, you will have a more complete and better aligned arch, which will improve your ability to bite and chew. By improving the overall alignment of your teeth, you will also improve the look of your smile and create stronger facial structural integrity.
Tooth Exposure Cost
Like most dental procedures, the final cost will be determined by a variety of factors, such as the severity of your case, where you are located geographically, and what type of insurance plan you currently have. Our practice does accept most dental insurance programs, including non-managed care, indemnity (traditional), and PPO out-of-network.
Our staff will be happy to submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company so you can determine what your benefits will be. Or, if you are not currently covered by insurance or have concerns about the final cost, our staff will be happy to discuss other financial arrangements with you.
High Quality Periodontal Care You Can Trust
When you come to Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, you can expect a friendly and professional dental team. Dr. Seda will listen carefully to your dental goals and provide a custom treatment plan that works with your budget and needs. We want you to fall in love with your smile again, so all our services are performed with the patient in mind. We want you to feel comfortable in the dental chair, and to feel confident in our services.
At Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, we aim to provide cutting edge perio and implant solutions in a comfortable and relaxed environment, where patients feel we put them first. Scheduling an appointment for tooth exposure is the first step towards being confident in your smile once again. To set up an appointment, please contact us today at (415) 482-9901.