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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

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

I went to have my wisdom teeth removed and it was the most pleasant experience. The staff and physician were very friendly and immediately put me at ease. The office was beautiful and exceptionally clean and I would definitely recommend their services to anyone and everyone!

Holly P.
Happy Patient

5 of 5 stars of 811

Dr. Loveless and the rest of his team was great! They made the whole experience very enjoyable. I was really nervous before going into my surgery and the team was very friendly and made me feel at ease. I will definitely recommend friends and family to Dr Loveless. He has a great bedside manner and, is very professional. I know ive found an awesome oral surgeon.

Angie B.
Happy Patient

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

My father had gone for a root canal the night before and a root fracture was discovered so the tooth could not be saved. We called the next morning to set up an oral surgery appointment and Dr. Loveless was able to accommodate him the same day. The staff explained everything in great detail regarding finances and post operative instructions. Dr. Loveless also discovered another area of concern and removed an additional tooth. This was extremely helpful since my dad is on blood thinners and we really wanted to avoid having to make two trips. Very clean office as well. Will recommend everyone we know to the practice.

5 of 5 stars of 811

“You are an awesome doctor! Also, your assistants were great and made everything so much easier. Thank you for being such a caring doctor.”

5 of 5 stars of 811

This surgeon is great. ALL his staff is outstanding. Had implant done, basically painless, very interesting procedure. Assistant /hygienist (practically doctor) Emily was great. Highly recommend this office.

Larry C.
Happy Patient

5 of 5 stars of 811

The Staff was very helpful, Chrissy made my visit wonderful, she made me feel at ease and helped me to not be apprehensive. Dr. Loveless did a great job of extracting my tooth. I would highly recommend him and his staff.

5 of 5 stars of 811

Best oral surgery place! Everyone is so friendly & caring! They did a great job of making sure I was comfortable & the surgeon did an excellent job-they even gave me some Ted Drewes to bring home!

Deb M.
Happy Patient

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!!

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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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