NHS Forth Valley – Exposure of an Impacted Tooth

This page explains what happens during a procedure to expose an impacted tooth. If you have any questions, please speak to your orthodontist or oral surgeon.

What is an impacted tooth?

An impacted tooth is a tooth that has not come through the gum as it should.

Why do I need treatment?

If an impacted tooth is not treated, it may stay stuck and could damage nearby teeth. Exposing the tooth allows your orthodontist to help guide it into the correct position.

What does the procedure involve?

The procedure, which involves lifting the gum over the tooth and, in some circumstancing removing a small amount of bone, can be carried out using:

Local anaesthetic
Sedation
General anaesthetic

Your oral surgeon will advise which option is best. Most people can go home the same day.

There are two possible methods:

1. Open exposure

The gum is left open, so the tooth is uncovered.
A soft dressing may be placed on top to stop food getting trapped.
The dressing usually falls out within a day or two.
Brush gently around the area from the day after surgery.

2. Closed exposure with a gold chain

A small bracket and gold chain are attached to the tooth.
The gum is stitched back over it, with the chain coming through the gum.
Your orthodontist will later use the chain to pull the tooth into place.
As the chain is delicate, please avoid eating sticky or chewy foods.
Clean gently around the area from the day after surgery.
Most stitches dissolve on their own however the stitch holding the chain does not dissolve and will be removed by your orthodontist.

After your surgery

Brush your teeth as normal, taking care around the surgery area.
Start using warm salt‑water rinses the day after surgery, after meals, for 7 days.
Take any prescribed medication as directed.
Some swelling, bruising, soreness, or slight bleeding is normal.
Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel for up to 10 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
Eat soft foods for two to three days after your surgery.
A follow‑up appointment is usually arranged with the Orthodontic Department within a few weeks. If you do not receive this, please call 01324 566429 / 566437.

Preparing for your operation

You will receive a letter telling you where to go and any fasting instructions, if required.

Your surgeon or anaesthetist will discuss the procedure and any potential risks of sedation or anaesthesia at your pre‑assessment appointment. You are also encouraged to ask questions or discuss any concerns you may have at this at this time.