Specialized Surgical Care for Impacted Canines and Other Teeth
Impacted teeth are teeth that fail to erupt through the gums properly, often remaining trapped in the bone or soft tissue. While wisdom teeth are the most commonly impacted, upper canines (also known as cuspids) are the next most frequently affected. At Surgical & Sleep Solutions in Orange City, FL, Dr. Shaunda Kelly offers expert surgical exposure of impacted teeth, working closely with your orthodontist or general dentist to support proper tooth alignment and long-term oral health.
As a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with dual medical and dental training, Dr. Kelly provides precise, patient-centered care for teens and adults who need surgical exposure of impacted teeth as part of their comprehensive treatment plan.
What Is Surgical Exposure of an Impacted Tooth?
Surgical exposure is a minor oral surgery procedure designed to uncover a tooth that has not erupted naturally. This is often performed in coordination with orthodontic treatment to help guide the tooth into its proper position.
The procedure typically involves:
- Creating a small incision in the gum to access the impacted tooth
- Removing any bone or soft tissue preventing eruption
- Attaching an orthodontic bracket and chain (if needed) to assist with guided movement
- Supporting healing and minimizing discomfort post-surgery
Exposing impacted teeth, especially canines, is important to avoid long-term issues like misalignment, root resorption, cysts, or crowding.
Common Reasons for Tooth Impaction
A tooth may become impacted due to:
- Lack of space in the dental arch
- Delayed eruption or improper positioning
- Baby teeth not falling out on time
- Genetics or developmental conditions
Upper canines are critical to proper bite function and aesthetics. Leaving an impacted canine untreated can lead to complications, including damage to adjacent teeth.
Who Needs This Procedure?
Most patients who need surgical tooth exposure are between ages 11 and 17 and undergoing orthodontic treatment. However, adults may also require this procedure if an impacted tooth was never addressed earlier or is discovered during treatment planning for dental implants or facial reconstruction.
Your dentist or orthodontist may refer you to Dr. Kelly if:
- X-rays show unerupted teeth
- There’s a visible bulge in the gums
- Braces aren’t progressing as planned
- Tooth impaction is causing crowding or bite issues
Sedation Options for Your Comfort
We offer several anesthesia options to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience, including:
- Local anesthesia
- Oral sedation
- IV sedation (Twilight Sleep)
- General anesthesia (for complex cases)
Dr. Kelly will help determine the best sedation method for your age, health history, and comfort level.
Collaborative, Concierge-Level Care
At Surgical & Sleep Solutions, we coordinate closely with referring orthodontists and general dentists to ensure a seamless experience. Our concierge-style approach means that every step—from initial evaluation to post-operative follow-up—is handled with personalized attention and transparency.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to recover from impacted tooth exposure?: Most patients resume normal activities within a few days. Mild soreness or swelling is common but manageable with over-the-counter medications or non-opioid pain control.
- Is this procedure always followed by orthodontic treatment?: Often, yes—especially if a bracket and chain are used to guide the tooth into position. Your orthodontist will determine the ideal timing and approach.
- Can any impacted tooth be exposed?: Not always. Some teeth may be positioned in a way that makes exposure or movement unfeasible. A consultation with Dr. Kelly will clarify your options.
- Is general anesthesia required?: Not usually. Many procedures are done with IV sedation or local anesthesia, but general anesthesia may be used for more complex exposures.
- Do you accept referrals for this procedure?: Yes. We work with orthodontists and general dentists across Orange City, Deltona, Debary, and surrounding areas. Refer a patient here.
Schedule a Consultation for Impacted Tooth Exposure in Orange City, FL
If you or your child has an impacted canine or another unerupted tooth, contact Surgical & Sleep Solutions to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaunda Kelly. We serve Orange City, Deltona, Debary, Deland, and the surrounding region with precision surgical care in a comfortable, concierge setting.