Exposure & Bondingin new jersey
When a tooth doesn’t erupt on its own, exposure and bonding can help guide it into place. This common surgical procedure creates a clear path for proper tooth alignment—supporting both function and aesthetics.
Why should I choose exposure and bonding?
Exposure and bonding is a minor oral surgery used to assist in the eruption of teeth that remain stuck—or “impacted”—beneath the gum line. Most commonly used for canines, this procedure is often part of an orthodontic treatment plan. The oral surgeon carefully uncovers the impacted tooth and attaches a small orthodontic bracket to help guide it into its correct position over time. By coordinating with your orthodontist, oral surgeons help ensure that teeth erupt in the right direction, at the right pace, and with minimal complications. This treatment is crucial in preventing misalignment, bite issues, and jaw discomfort that can result from impacted teeth being left untreated.
A Positive Experience for Younger Patients
Exposure and bonding is often performed on teens and pre-teens. Our team focuses on creating a calm, welcoming environment that makes patients feel safe and cared for.
Supporting Patients and Families
We believe every child and teen deserves access to expert oral care. That’s why we offer payment solutions that help keep exposure and bonding affordable.
Seamless Collaboration with Orthodontists
We work hand-in-hand with your orthodontist to ensure smooth coordination and successful treatment outcomes—giving your care team one clear path to follow.
The Benefits of Exposure & Bonding
3D imaging and CBCT scans give your surgical team a precise map of the impacted tooth’s location. This allows for more efficient treatment with less tissue disruption and faster healing.
Treatment That Fits Your Budget
The Benefits of Exposure & Bonding
Guides Teeth into Proper Position
By physically uncovering and guiding the tooth, exposure and bonding helps prevent future misalignment and supports overall orthodontic success.
Reduces Orthodontic Complications
Leaving impacted teeth untreated can create crowding, pain, or long-term bite issues. This procedure minimizes those risks and simplifies future orthodontic care.
Safe, Predictable, and Effective
With the right timing and expert coordination, exposure and bonding is a routine, low-risk procedure that leads to excellent outcomes—especially when addressed early.
The Exposure & Bonding Process
Consultation & Imaging
Consultation & Imaging
Your oral surgeon will begin with a consultation and detailed 3D imaging to pinpoint the exact location of the impacted tooth. They’ll collaborate with your orthodontist to understand the overall treatment plan, assess how the tooth is positioned beneath the gums, and determine whether exposure and bonding is appropriate. You'll receive a clear explanation of the process, along with any pre-surgical instructions.
Surgical Exposure
Surgical Exposure
During the procedure, the surgeon will gently lift the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth. If necessary, a small amount of bone may be removed to fully reveal the crown. A tiny orthodontic bracket and chain will then be bonded to the tooth. This chain will later be used by your orthodontist to apply gentle traction and guide the tooth into position. Most procedures are performed under sedation for maximum comfort, and the entire visit typically lasts under an hour.
Recovery & Orthodontic Activation
Recovery & Orthodontic Activation
After the procedure, you’ll be given post-op instructions to support healing. There may be minor swelling or discomfort for a few days, but most patients recover quickly. The orthodontist will activate the chain at a follow-up appointment and begin slowly moving the tooth into place. Your oral surgeon remains available throughout the healing process to address any concerns and ensure things are progressing as expected.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
Teeth can become impacted for several reasons. It might be due to overcrowding, unusual angulation, or simply a lack of space in the jaw. Genetics and delayed tooth development can also play a role. Canines are especially prone to impaction because they erupt later than other front teeth—and if there's not enough space or guidance, they can get stuck beneath the gums.
Exposure and bonding is typically performed in the early teen years—usually between ages 11 and 14—when most permanent teeth have erupted and orthodontic treatment is beginning or already underway. This is the ideal window for gently guiding an impacted tooth into place while the jaw is still developing.
The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia and often sedation, so your child will remain comfortable throughout. Afterward, there may be mild soreness or swelling for a few days, but it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients are back to normal routines quickly and report very little discomfort overall.
The timeline varies based on the tooth’s position, but most teeth begin moving within weeks. It may take several months for the impacted tooth to fully emerge and align with the rest of the teeth. Your orthodontist will gradually apply traction to guide it into the correct position, adjusting as needed over time.
