Sometimes, permanent teeth can’t grow into the mouth properly because they are blocked by another tooth, bone, or gum tissue. This causes the teeth to sit below the gums and remain trapped or only grow partially into the mouth. These teeth are called impacted teeth, and they can cause a variety of oral health problems. Wisdom teeth and canines are the most common impacted teeth, but incisors, premolars, and molars can all become impacted. Impacted teeth need to be guided carefully into their proper place.
Assisted eruption is a routine treatment for impacted teeth. An oral surgeon or periodontist will work with your orthodontist to guide the impacted teeth into the dental arch.
How does assisted eruption work?
First, your teeth will be prepared for braces, which are used to make room for the impacted tooth’s new position. The braces also provide the proper anchorage that the orthodontist uses to pull the impacted tooth into place carefully.
Next, an oral surgeon or periodontist will perform a surgical procedure that carefully moves the overlying gum and/or bone tissue to expose the trapped tooth. At this time, a small bracket and chain are bonded to the newly exposed tooth. After a brief recovery period, your orthodontist will use the chain to guide the impacted tooth into position gently. This treatment can take up to a year to complete because it’s necessary to follow the natural growth track of the tooth.
Why do I need assisted eruption treatment?
The treatment of impacted teeth is essential to the optimal structure of your mouth and avoiding costly orthodontic or restorative work later in life.
Untreated impacted teeth can lead to issues such as
- Jaw pain
- Shifting or crowding of teeth
- Root damage to adjacent teeth
- Tooth loss
- Infection
- Misalignment of the bite
Assisted eruption is a treatment that is suitable for almost any age, but early detection of impacted teeth may contribute to more successful treatment due to reduced treatment time and fewer (if any) symptoms to treat.
Learn More About Assisted Eruption of Impacted Teeth
Contact our office to learn more about assisted eruption and treatment of impacted teeth. If you or your child needs orthodontic services, we will be happy to schedule a complimentary consultation. We look forward to hearing from you.