What is

“

Expose and Bond

”

?

 

When patients begin orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth, space is often created for unerupted teeth. If those teeth don’t erupt on schedule, an orthodontist may refer the patient to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for an expose-and-bond procedure.

 

During this minor surgical procedure:

• The unerupted tooth is surgically exposed.
• A small orthodontic bracket is attached to the tooth.
• A chain is connected to the patient’s existing braces or aligners.

 

At follow-up visits, the orthodontist gradually uses this connection to help guide the tooth into its proper position.

 

Why Expose Impacted Teeth?

 

An expose-and-bond procedure may be necessary when:

 

• A tooth is unlikely to erupt on its own due to its position.
• An unerupted tooth threatens the roots of neighboring teeth.
• Cysts may form around the impacted tooth, leading to health concerns.
• Eruption without guidance could misalign nearby teeth.

 

Dr. Cutright offers expose-and-bond procedures with precision and care to help ensure successful orthodontic outcomes.

Schedule a consultation today to learn if this treatment is right for you.