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Impacted Canines or Tooth Exposure


Impacted canines occur when teeth fail to erupt properly, and stay below the gumline or in the bone. While it is often possible for an orthodontist to move teeth to allow space for the tooth to grow in naturally, some cases require the assistance of an oral surgeon to provide space for the tooth to erupt. Your dentist or orthodontist may recommend to have it “exposed”.  This refers to the procedure to remove the bone and gum tissue above the tooth.  After the top of the tooth is exposed, an orthodontic button will be secured to the tooth which will allow the orthodontist to gently guide that tooth into the correct position in the mouth.

​Certain teeth are more essential to the proper alignment and function of your smile. Canines or cuspids, for example are the most common tooth to be referred for exposure. These teeth have a tendency to become impacted and are only extracted as a last resort.

​Your orthodontist and your oral surgeon will work closely to determine the correct procedure and the correct timing for an exposure surgery. The first step is usually with the orthodontist who will place brackets on the teeth and ensure that they are aligned. Once there is enough space for the impacted tooth to erupt into, the oral surgeon will expose the tooth and secure an orthodontic button. This procedure is commonly performed under general anesthesia after a consultation with the oral surgeon.

Post-Operative Instructions After Impacted Tooth Exposure

Oral surgical care in a safe, warm, and caring environment!

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5 of 5 stars of 811

What can I say? No one likes to visit the dentist…especially for anything other than having their teeth cleaned. I am no different. Hated that I had to have a tooth taken out but it was necessary. I was referred here by my dentist to see Dr. Loveless. If I ever have to have anything else done from an oral surgeon, I would never wish to see anyone else. Dr. Loveless and his staff not only made me feel less anxious but they were super nice and made sure that I knew everything that was being done. I would refer them to anyone with complete confidence! If I could give them more than 5 stars, I would. I want to tell them all thank you for making this process much easier on me. Just an amazing staff and surgeon!!

5 of 5 stars of 811

Great place. Super nice staff and quick procedures. Everyone I know who got surgery done elsewhere was bedridden for a week but I had almost immediate recovery time. Highly recommend this place

Clayton J.
Happy Patient

5 of 5 stars of 811

“For the gentle care on my three extractions–you’re the best!”

5 of 5 stars of 811

My experience with the ladies and Doctor Loveless was great. I had never been put under by anesthesia before and they made me comfortable and very relaxed. They took care of me from the beginning consultation to leaving minus 4 teeth. Thankfully Dr. Loveless is a younger man so he will hopefully be around to treat my children with the same care, someday.

5 of 5 stars of 811

We were headed to Florida when my son came down with an abscessed tooth. Dr. Loveless was able to get us in and remove his tooth before our flight. I can’t thank Laurie enough for making what could be a scary experience for my 7 year old, a fun, pleasant one. I can’t express how thankful I am for her treating him like her own and making sure he was comfortable. She went above and beyond in my eyes and made this nervous mom rest a little easier. Thank you both!!!

5 of 5 stars of 811

Dr. Loveless did an amazing job. I needed a wisdom tooth extracted that had a large cavity. He got it out whole in less than 1 minute. He is great. His staff is wonderful too. My whole experience was great. I will refer anyone that needs an oral surgeon!

Pamela W.
Happy Patient

5 of 5 stars of 811

Dr. Loveless is amazing. I will continue to use and refer people to him.

5 of 5 stars of 811

I had a great experience at Archway. I went there to get four wisdom teeth removed. The office was clean. The staff was nice and efficient. Dr. Loveless was warm and the Spotify music was a nice touch. The procedure went through with no problems and I didn’t feel a thing. I received a post op call and great instructions. Overall, the experience exceeded my expectations after you hear all the horror stories regarding wisdom teeth removal.

5 of 5 stars of 811

Dr. Loveless,

Thank you for making my tooth extraction so quick and easy. I was expecting a lot of pain. Haven’t experienced any residual pain, either since I woke up the following morning. You should hang a shingle stating “painless Dentist”!! Also, your staff is so kind and attentive. I would definitely come back when needed, and recommend you to anyone in need. Though I don’t wish that pre-surgery pain on any person (or animal) for that matter!

 

5 of 5 stars of 811

Dr. Loveless and his team were amazing! I was a new patient and called to see if I could get in right away to remove a wisdom tooth. It was an emergency, and they got me in within the hour!! The staff through out my whole experience, from the front desk to the dental assistants, were GREAT!!!! The office was fresh and clean. I highly recommend Dr. Loveless if you’re looking for an oral surgeon.

Raegan M.
Happy Patient

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St. Louis Office

Washington Office

St. Louis Office

Office: (314) 328-5995

Address:
16 Hampton Village

Plaza Suite #200

St. Louis, MO 63109

Washington Office

Office: (636)-239-5959

Fax: (314) 328-5996

Address:
551 E 5th Street

Washington, MO 63090

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