Exposure of a retained tooth prior to orthodontic treatment 

Exposure of a retained tooth prior to orthodontic treatment 

On 26 February 202519 February 2025In Polish Dentist in the UK

When is it necessary, what does the procedure look like and how much braces can be fitted afterwards? Read our article and find out more about exposing a retained tooth before orthodontic treatment. 

What is the exposure of a retained tooth prior to orthodontic treatment?

Exposing a retained tooth prior to orthodontic treatment is a surgical procedure performed when a tooth has not erupted in the mouth and remains in the bone. It is crucial to allow it to be properly positioned in the arch with orthodontic braces. 

The upper canines are most commonly affected, although this can also happen with other teeth. In most cases, the aim is to preserve the tooth and keep it in the correct position, rather than extracting it. Removal of a canine or other important tooth could negatively affect the aesthetics of the smile and the function of the bite. 

Therefore, the orthodontist, together with the dental surgeon, decides to expose the tooth and gradually bring it back into its proper place.

And you can read more about retained teeth in our article on a similar topic "Retained tooth - what exactly is it and does it always need to be removed".

Alt text: a dentist in a blue apron uses a dental microscope during a procedure, assisted by medical staff. The patient lies on a dental chair. A medical logo is visible in the lower right corner. Staff wear protective masks and gloves.

What is the procedure for exposing a retained tooth before orthodontic treatment?

The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. It involves making an incision in the gum and exposing a piece of bone over the retained tooth. The dentist then removes a small amount of bone to gain access to the crown of the tooth. Finally, a special orthodontic abutment (e.g. a chain lock) is placed to allow the tooth to be gradually moved into its correct position.

The entire procedure usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes and does not require hospitalisation.

What are the post-treatment recommendations and when can orthodontic treatment begin?

After exposing a retained tooth prior to orthodontic treatment, hard and hot foods should be avoided for a few days. In case of pain or swelling, it is a good idea to apply cold compresses to the cheek and take painkillers as recommended by your dentist.

Last but not least, however, is proper hygiene oral cavity. Avoid direct brushing of the wound for the first few days, while taking care of the remaining teeth. We wrote about how best to do this in the article "How to brush your teeth properly".

It usually takes 7 to 14 days for the wound to fully heal, but the whole process of bringing the tooth back to its correct position can take several months.

'Professional dental office with doctor in white apron and blue gloves. Dental lamp and medical equipment visible in the background. Bright, sterile interior of the surgery."

Exposing an impacted tooth - price

This one, as always, depends on the surgery. At ours you will pay from £150 for a procedure to expose a retained tooth prior to orthodontic treatment. The final amount depends on the complexity of the procedure itself.

However, if you are worried about the cost and for this reason do not want to undertake an orthodontic procedure or treatment - rest assured. At our practice, you can spread the payment over instalments that are convenient for you. Importantly, the first 12 months are zero interest and our instalment scheme is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 619628).