Expose and Bond
Guiding Impacted Teeth into Place
Sometimes teeth—most often the upper canines—fail to erupt naturally. When this happens, orthodontic treatment alone may not be enough. At NorthShore Center for Oral & Facial Surgery and Implantology, our surgeons work closely with your orthodontist to gently uncover impacted teeth and guide them into proper position using a procedure called expose and bond surgery. This procedure helps impacted teeth erupt properly and align with the rest of your smile.
Expose and Bond
Guiding Impacted Teeth into Place
Sometimes teeth—most often the upper canines—fail to erupt naturally. When this happens, orthodontic treatment alone may not be enough. At NorthShore Center for Oral & Facial Surgery and Implantology, our surgeons work closely with your orthodontist to gently uncover impacted teeth and guide them into proper position using a procedure called expose and bond surgery. This procedure helps impacted teeth erupt properly and align with the rest of your smile.
What Is Expose and Bond?
Expose and bond is a minor surgical procedure used to help a tooth that is trapped beneath the gums erupt properly. During the procedure, our surgeons carefully uncover the impacted tooth, confirm that it is not fused/scarred to the bone, and then attach a small button with a chain. Your orthodontist then pulls on this chain to gradually guide the tooth into place as part of your braces treatment.
This combined surgical-orthodontic approach ensures the tooth erupts in the right position and contributes to a balanced, functional bite.
Why Is Expose and Bond Needed?
This treatment may be recommended if you
- Have an impacted tooth that hasn’t erupted on its own
- Are undergoing orthodontic treatment and need proper alignment
- Want to avoid long-term dental problems caused by impacted teeth
Benefits of Expose and Bond
- Supports orthodontic treatment – Ensures proper tooth alignment.
- Prevents future problems – Reduces risk of cysts, infection, or bone loss around impacted teeth.
- Improves bite and function – Creates a healthier, more stable occlusion.
- Enhances aesthetics – Brings teeth into proper position for a balanced smile.
Frequently Asked Questions about Expose and Bond:
How do you find the impacted tooth?
Great question! We use 3-D imaging to identify the location of your impacted tooth and determine the most conservative surgical approach.
Is expose and bond painful?
No. The procedure is typically performed with IV sedation, so you won’t feel pain during treatment. Mild soreness afterward is easily managed.
How long does it take for the tooth to move into position?
Movement is gradual and depends on your orthodontic plan. It may take several months for the tooth to be brought down and fully align with the rest of your smile.
Can expose and bond be done for teeth other than canines?
Yes. While canines are most common, other impacted teeth can sometimes be treated with expose and bond.
What happens if the impacted tooth isn’t treated?
Untreated impacted teeth may lead to crowding, misalignment, cysts, or damage to neighboring teeth. Early intervention prevents these complications.
Is expose and bond always successful?
Most procedures are highly successful when performed by our experienced surgeons in coordination with your orthodontist. In rare cases where teeth are fused to the bone or do not respond we may discuss alternative treatment options.
Why Choose Us?
Our oral surgeons have extensive training and experience in orthodontic surgical procedures like expose and bond. With advanced imaging, minimally invasive techniques, and a focus on patient comfort, we help ensure impacted teeth erupt into their proper place—supporting a healthy bite, a confident smile, and long-term oral health.
