Oral Surgery
Tooth Exposure
in Annandale
Tooth Exposure for Annandale residents at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Oral Surgery
Tooth Exposure in Annandale
For Annandale residents seeking tooth exposure, our board-certified periodontists provide exceptional results at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in Alexandria. Tooth exposure is a minor surgical procedure to uncover an impacted or unerupted tooth — most commonly a canine — and attach an orthodontic bracket so the tooth can be guided into its proper position.
The short 12-minute drive from Annandale to our Alexandria office is well worth it for the level of specialized tooth exposure care our periodontists deliver. Impacted canines and other teeth that fail to erupt on their own need to be surgically exposed so orthodontic treatment can bring them into alignment, preserving the natural tooth rather than extracting it.
Why Precision Periodontics
Board-certified periodontists serving Annandale.
Our periodontists — Drs. Zalewsky, Alani, Artis, Daru, Lakkis, and Ganesh — combine advanced specialty training with a patient-centered approach. Our periodontists make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the crown of the impacted tooth, then bond an orthodontic bracket and chain to it. The orthodontist then gradually guides the tooth into its correct position in the arch. Patients from Annandale consistently trust our expertise.
Ready to learn more about tooth exposure? Annandale patients can reach our Alexandria practice by calling (703) 823-2422 or submitting an appointment request online. Our periodontists are committed to providing you with outstanding care from your very first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tooth Exposure FAQ for Annandale Patients
What is tooth exposure surgery?
Tooth exposure is a minor surgical procedure to uncover an impacted or unerupted tooth — most commonly an upper canine — that is trapped beneath the gum tissue or bone. The periodontist creates an opening in the tissue, bonds an orthodontic bracket with a small gold chain to the tooth, and the orthodontist then gradually guides the tooth into its proper position.
Why are upper canines the most commonly impacted teeth after wisdom teeth?
Upper canines have the longest and most complex eruption path of any tooth, traveling from near the eye socket down to the dental arch. They are the last of the front teeth to erupt (around age 11-13), so they are more likely to be blocked by crowding, supernumerary teeth, or abnormal positioning of the developing tooth bud.
How long does it take for an exposed tooth to move into position?
Once exposed and bonded, the orthodontist applies gentle force via the chain and braces. The tooth typically takes 6 to 18 months to move into its final position, depending on how far it needs to travel and the patient's age. Younger patients generally experience faster tooth movement.
What is the alternative if an impacted canine cannot be saved?
If the impacted tooth is severely malpositioned, ankylosed (fused to bone), or its root is resorbing, extraction may be recommended. The space can then be closed orthodontically or restored with a dental implant once growth is complete. Early detection through X-rays by age 7 to 10 gives the best chance of successful exposure.
Getting Here
Directions from Annandale to Our Alexandria, VA Office
Our Alexandria, VA office is approximately 15 minutes from Annandale, near landmarks such as Annandale Community Park, Little River Turnpike, and Mason District Park.
Driving Directions: Take Little River Turnpike (Route 236) east toward Alexandria. Turn south on Beauregard Street, then left onto Seminary Road. Continue to Kenmore Avenue. Our Alexandria office is at 4660 Kenmore Avenue, Suite 300.
Alexandria, VA: 4660 Kenmore Avenue, Suite 300 & 312, Alexandria, VA 22304
Request An Appointment
Let us help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
Contact us with any questions or to schedule a tooth exposure consultation at our Alexandria office. We look forward to welcoming you.