Surgical Assisted Eruption of Teeth
Ortho-assisted eruption is a multidisciplinary procedure used to guide impacted teeth (often canines or molars) into their proper position in the dental arch. It involves creating space with braces, surgical exposure of the tooth by a specialist, and applying gentle orthodontics traction using a tiny chain to guide the tooth into place, typically over serval months.
Key Aspects of the Procedure
- Assessments: X-rays and 3D scans are used to determine the exact position of the impacted tooth.
- Space Preparation: Braces are first placed to move adjacent teeth and create space for the impacted tooth.
- Surgical Exposure: An oral surgeon or periodontist removes covering gum tissue and bone to expose the tooth crown.
- Bonding and Chain: A small bracket with a gold chain is bonded to the exposed tooth.
- Orthodontic Traction: The orthodontist uses the chain to apply gently, consistent force, pulling the tooth into its correct position over 6 to 12 months.
Why Assisted Eruption is Needed
Untreated impacted teeth can cause serious oral health issues, including:
- Root damage to adjacent, healthy teeth
- Development of cysts or infections
- Shifting of teeth and loss of space
