Oral Surgery
Tooth Exposure
in Chevy Chase
Tooth Exposure for Chevy Chase residents at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Oral Surgery
Tooth Exposure in Chevy Chase
For Chevy Chase residents seeking tooth exposure, our board-certified periodontists provide exceptional results at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in Washington DC. 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.
Many of our tooth exposure patients travel from Chevy Chase — a drive of only about 15 minutes — because they value the combination of periodontal expertise and personalized attention we provide. 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 Chevy Chase.
With a team of six board-certified periodontists trained at leading institutions, Precision Periodontics brings an exceptional level of skill to every tooth exposure case. 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. Chevy Chase patients benefit from our team's combined decades of specialized experience.
We encourage Chevy Chase residents to take the next step toward improved oral health and confidence. Call our Washington DC office at (202) 296-3360 or use our online form to request your tooth exposure consultation. We look forward to welcoming you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tooth Exposure FAQ for Chevy Chase 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 Chevy Chase to Our Washington, DC Office
Our Washington, DC office is approximately 12 minutes from Chevy Chase, near landmarks such as Chevy Chase Circle, Columbia Country Club, and Friendship Heights Metro.
Driving Directions: Head south on Connecticut Avenue NW through Chevy Chase Circle into the District. Continue past Dupont Circle, then turn left on M Street NW. Our office is at 2311 M Street NW, Suite 500.
Washington, DC: 2311 M Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20037
(202) 296-3360Request 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 Washington, DC office. We look forward to welcoming you.