Exposure of impacted teeth refers to a dental procedure in which a tooth that has not fully erupted or is partially covered by gum tissue or bone is surgically exposed and brought into proper alignment. Impacted teeth commonly occur with third molars (wisdom teeth) or can occur with other teeth such as canines or premolars.

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During the exposure procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue to access the impacted tooth. If necessary, a small amount of bone may also be removed to fully expose the tooth. Once the tooth is visible, any obstructing gum tissue or bone may be gently removed to create space for the tooth to properly erupt.

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The purpose of exposing impacted teeth is to facilitate their eruption into the dental arch, allowing for proper alignment and function. In some cases, after the tooth is exposed, orthodontic treatment may be required to guide the tooth into its correct position.

The exposed tooth can then be monitored and further dental treatment, such as orthodontics or restorative procedures, may be recommended to ensure optimal oral health and function.

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Exposure of impacted teeth is typically performed under local anesthesia, and the procedure may vary depending on the specific tooth and its position.

 

The decision to expose an impacted tooth is based on various factors, including the patient's age, oral health, and the potential impact of the impacted tooth on adjacent teeth and overall dental alignment.