Sometimes while an adult tooth/teeth are erupting into the mouth they get stuck in the wrong position. This is called tooth impaction. Commonly people think of this occurring with third molars (wisdom teeth). This can also occur with any tooth in the mouth. To help bring your tooth into the proper position a surgical orthodontic uncovery, also called a surgical tooth exposure, procedure may be necessary.
Tooth impaction occurs from:
1. Improper Sequence of Tooth Eruption - teeth erupting into place early may prevent other teeth from erupting into their correct position.
2. Crossbites - incorrect position of teeth and/ or jaw bone.
3. Ankylosis - is when the tooth root fuses with the bone. Normally there is a
  periodontal ligament between the tooth root and bone.
4. Genetic Factors - tooth impaction tends to run in families.
5. Crowding of teeth - this blocks teeth from erupting into their correct position.
6. Extra Thick Gum Tissue and Bone - thick tissue prevents teeth from erupting.
The major problem preventing teeth from erupting into their proper position are resistance factors. These factors include thick gum tissue, dense (hard) bone, or entrapment by other tooth roots.
Our goal in treating these situations is to remove or get around these resistance factors without damaging the teeth.
First we will perform a periodontal exam and take xrays to determine the position of the tooth/ teeth. Once we determine the tooth position, we will proceed with one of two treatments.

Orthodontic Uncoveries