Tooth Exposure & Uncovery Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Tooth Exposure
Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Tooth exposure is a procedure performed when a permanent tooth remains trapped beneath the gum tissue or jawbone and does not erupt normally. It’s most commonly used for impacted canine teeth, although other permanent teeth may also require treatment. Impaction can occur because of overcrowding, an abnormal eruption path, retained baby teeth, or insufficient space in the dental arch. During a tooth exposure procedure, the tooth is uncovered so an orthodontist can guide it into its proper position. Bringing the impacted tooth into alignment can help preserve the appearance, function, and balance of a patient’s smile.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our specialty-trained periodontists Drs. Zalewsky, Daru, Gupta, and Lakkis have years of experience treating a wide range of stages of gum disease and placing dental implants. To learn more about tooth exposure, our clinic facilities, or to schedule an appointment for a procedure, contact our Alexandria, VA office at (703) 823-2422 or our Washington, D.C. office at (202) 296-3360.
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Dr. Daru
In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.
Dr. Gupta
Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.
Dr. Lakkis
Dr. Dima Lakkis earned her DDS with honors in 2006 and completed her Periodontics training and Master of Science at Case Western Reserve. She is Board Certified and a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Lakkis provides a full range of periodontal and implant treatments, with advanced training in cosmetic procedures. She is an active member of several dental organizations and has published in the Journal of Periodontology on the link between periodontal and systemic health.
Dr. Zalewsky
Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.
Causes of Impacted Teeth
Teeth may become impacted for a variety of reasons, including the following:
- Tooth is fused to bone (ankylosis)
- Root dilacerations
- Tooth bud abnormally positioned
- Discrepancies in the arch length/tooth size
- Early loss or prolonged retention of the primary canine
Regardless of the reason for the tooth being impacted, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. Neglecting to have tooth exposure may result in an increase in pressure on the surrounding teeth, which can cause them to become overloaded or damaged. Tooth exposure will also provide you with a better-aligned and more complete arch, which in turn will improve your ability to chew and bite. An improved overall alignment will also strengthen the structural integrity of your facial structure and provide you with a bright, balanced smile.
Tooth Exposure Expectations
In order to address your impacted tooth or teeth, it will be necessary to create a small window through which your tooth can erupt unimpeded. Prior to beginning the surgical procedure, your periodontist will administer a local anesthetic and/or IV sedation if required. Once you are properly numbed and/or sedated, your periodontist will make a small incision into the tissue in order to uncover the crown. If necessary, bony tissue may be removed to unblock the pathway. Once properly exposed, your periodontist will attach a small bracket to the tooth to put the tooth in alignment with the rest of the arch in the lower and upper jaw. Once this is in place, the procedure will be complete, after which the patient will wait for the tooth to erupt. This typically takes around two to four months, although the time will vary from patient to patient and could take up to nine months depending upon your rate of tooth eruption.
Tooth Exposure Aftercare
Following your tooth exposure procedure, it is common to feel some soreness, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain-relieving medication. For patients with gum or tooth sensitivity, it may be helpful to use a soft-bristle toothbrush during this healing period.
Once you have completed the recovery process, it will not be necessary to follow special aftercare instructions, although it is important to be aware of the reason this procedure was needed in the first place. Continue practicing good daily oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss twice daily, and schedule regular visits to your periodontist to ensure that your teeth receive regular professional cleanings, which will reduce your risk of developing gingivitis or periodontitis. If you follow these best practices, you will enjoy a bright and healthy smile for many years to come.
Tooth Exposure & Uncovery Cost
The cost of tooth exposure will depend on a variety of factors, including your dental insurance plan, whether or not additional procedures are required, the severity of your case, and what type of dental sedation (if any) was used.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to ensuring that money is not a deterrent to our patients receiving the optimal dental health care they deserve. For this reason, we offer a range of payment options regardless of what type of treatment you are having, which our staff will be happy to explain and assist with. Our office insurance coordinators work with other insurance companies to assist patients with their claims.
For your convenience, Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry accepts cash, check, debit, and credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, Visa, and Discover). Our clinic also accepts GreenSky Patient Solutions, a financing option for procedures and treatments not typically covered by insurance or when insurance does not cover the entire cost. We are happy to provide an application in our office. You can find out more information about this service at https://www.greensky.com/patient-faq/.
Providing you with Optimal Care
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we proudly offer outstanding oral healthcare for patients in the Washington, D.C., and Alexandria, VA, areas. In our calm, peaceful environment, we use state-of-the-art equipment to perform advanced procedures designed to achieve optimal results. Because collaboration is a key component of success, we work closely with your primary dentist to deliver the customized treatment and care you deserve.
To schedule an appointment for tooth exposure, contact us today. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a bright and healthy smile!