Impacted Canine Exposure
Exposure And Bond Impacted Canine is a specialized dental service provided by the board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Uncovering impacted canine teeth and guiding them into the arch with orthodontic traction.
Your Canine Is Up There — It Just Needs a Path to Follow
The maxillary canine is the second most commonly impacted tooth after the wisdom tooth. But unlike wisdom teeth — which are routinely extracted — canines are essential for a functional bite and an aesthetic smile. They serve as the cornerstones of the dental arch: they guide lateral jaw movements, protect the posterior teeth from harmful forces, and provide the visual "frame" of the smile. When a canine fails to erupt and becomes impacted — trapped in the bone of the palate or the buccal (cheek) side of the ridge — the preferred treatment is not extraction but surgical exposure and orthodontic guidance into the arch.
The procedure is performed collaboratively between the oral surgeon and the orthodontist. CBCT imaging at Aloha Dental Specialty Center shows us the exact three-dimensional position of the impacted canine: how high it is in the bone, whether it is palatal or buccal, its angulation, and whether it is resorbing the roots of adjacent teeth. Dr. Ostovar then plans the surgical exposure — raising a flap over the impacted tooth, removing the bone covering the crown, bonding a small orthodontic bracket and gold chain to the exposed enamel, and repositioning the flap. The orthodontist then applies gentle traction to the chain over months, guiding the tooth down through the bone and gum tissue into its proper position in the arch.
There are two main techniques: the open technique (window technique), where a window of tissue is removed and the tooth is left exposed, and the closed technique, where the bracket and chain are bonded, the flap is sutured back, and the tooth is pulled through the tissue orthodontically. Dr. Ostovar selects the technique based on the tooth's position and the orthodontist's preference. Recovery from the surgical exposure itself is 5-7 days. The orthodontic movement phase takes 6-18 months depending on how far the tooth must travel. The end result — a natural canine in its proper position — is far superior to any prosthetic replacement.
Serving Beaverton, Aloha, Hillsboro & Washington County
Aloha Dental Specialty Center is located at 18455 SW Alexander St, Suite A, in Beaverton, Or 97003egon. We serve patients from across the Tualatin Valley and greater Portland metro, including Aloha, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, and Tualatin. Our Beaverton office is a 5-minute drive from Aloha, 10 minutes from Hillsboro, and 15 minutes from Tigard via SW 185th Avenue.
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Intel Campuses (Ronler Acres & Jones Farm)
10 to 15 minutes via NW 185th Ave. We accommodate the schedules of tech professionals who need efficient, high-quality specialty care.
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Nike World Headquarters
About 8 minutes via SW Baseline Rd. We frequently see patients from the Nike campus for surgical and implant procedures with sedation options.
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Streets of Tanasbourne & Orenco Station
Easily accessible via US-26 and NW 185th. Local general dentists in these communities regularly refer patients to us for specialty procedures.
Why Local Dentists Refer to Us
We work as a trusted partner to general dentists throughout the Tualatin Valley. When cases require CBCT-guided planning, IV sedation, bone grafting, or other advanced procedures, local providers refer to Dr. Ostovar for his fellowship-trained expertise and predictable results.
We handle the complex surgical phases and coordinate closely with your general dentist for seamless continuity of care from start to finish.
Understanding Your Investment
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, we provide transparent pricing before any treatment begins. The cost of your procedure depends on clinical complexity, materials used, and sedation requirements. We walk you through every line item during your consultation so there are no surprises.
What Affects Cost:
- Clinical Complexity: Bone loss, sinus proximity, nerve involvement, or the need for grafting affects treatment planning and surgical time.
- Materials: We use research-backed implant systems, purified bone graft matrices, and high-strength ceramics from established manufacturers.
- Sedation: Options range from local anesthesia to IV sedation, each with different associated costs. We discuss the best option for your comfort and procedure.
Insurance & Financing
We accept most major dental insurance plans and file claims on your behalf. Our team verifies your benefits before treatment and submits pre-treatment estimates with clinical documentation to maximize coverage.
For out-of-pocket costs, we partner with CareCredit and Cherry for flexible payment plans. We also offer our ADSC Dental Savings Plan for patients without insurance.
Recovery & Healing Timeline
Understanding the healing process helps you plan ahead and follow post-operative instructions for the best possible outcome.
First 48 Hours
Mild swelling and tenderness are normal. Apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals and take prescribed or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Eat soft foods and avoid the surgical site when chewing.
Days 3 to 7
Swelling peaks around day three and then improves. The tissue begins closing over the surgical site. Continue with soft foods and use any prescribed antimicrobial rinse. Most patients return to normal activities during this phase.
Long-Term Healing
Surface tissue heals within two to three weeks. Bone integration and deep healing continue for three to six months. Avoid smoking, follow up as scheduled, and maintain good oral hygiene throughout recovery.
Questions during recovery? Call us at (503) 822-0096. We are available for post-operative concerns.
Why Canines Become Impacted
Maxillary canines have the longest path of eruption of any tooth — they develop high in the maxilla near the orbit and must travel a considerable distance to reach their eruption position in the alveolar ridge. This lengthy eruption path makes them vulnerable to deviation. The most common cause of impaction is inadequate space in the arch, but other factors include: early loss of the primary canine (removing the eruption guide), ectopic position of the tooth germ, cysts or odontomas obstructing the path, and genetic factors. Palatal impaction (the canine is displaced toward the palate) is more common than buccal impaction and has a better prognosis for orthodontic alignment because the palatal bone is dense enough to allow controlled traction without significant root resorption.
Why Choose a Specialist?
Exposing an impacted canine requires surgical precision in a confined space. The tooth may be adjacent to the roots of the incisors and premolars, and excessive bone removal or inadvertent contact with adjacent root surfaces can cause complications. Bonding the bracket to the enamel of a partially exposed tooth in a bloody surgical field requires a dry enamel surface — which demands meticulous hemostasis and careful technique. The bracket placement must be on the correct surface and in a position that allows the orthodontist to vector the traction appropriately. This is a procedure that benefits from a surgeon who performs it regularly and communicates closely with the orthodontist about the desired exposure and bracket position.
Your Exposure And Bond Impacted Canine Treatment Steps
- Consultation & Exam: Comprehensive exposure and bond impacted canine evaluation with CBCT 3D imaging at our Beaverton office.
- Treatment Plan: Board-certified specialist discusses your exposure and bond impacted canine options, timeline, and costs. Our procedures maintain a 95%+ success rate, backed by advanced 3D imaging and evidence-based protocols.
- Treatment: Procedure performed with comfort options including sedation if needed.
- Follow-Up: Post-treatment monitoring and care coordination for optimal healing.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Book a consultation with our board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Call (503) 822-0096 Office hours: Monday through Friday 7 AM to 7 PM, Saturday and Sunday 8 AM to 2 PM. or request an appointment online.
Related Services at Aloha Dental Specialty Center:
Dental Implants · Oral Surgery · Root Canal · Invisalign · Periodontics · Pediatric · TMJ Treatment · Sedation · Cosmetic · Emergency · Sleep Apnea
A Note from Your Dental Team
In my experience, the patients who get the best results from exposure and bond impacted canine are those who come in with realistic expectations and follow their post-treatment instructions carefully. I’d rather spend extra time explaining what to expect than have a patient be surprised later.
“Every patient I see has a different story, a different set of concerns, and a different definition of what ‘success’ looks like. That’s why I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment plans. When you come in for a consultation, I’ll listen first, examine second, and recommend third.
I also won’t recommend a procedure you don’t need. If your tooth can be saved with a filling instead of a crown, I’ll tell you that. If watchful waiting is appropriate, I’ll explain why. My job isn’t to sell treatment — it’s to give you my honest clinical judgment so you can make an informed decision.
If you have questions about whether this treatment is right for you, or if you’ve been told you need this procedure by another dentist and want a second opinion, call us at (503) 822-0096. We’re happy to take the time to explain everything — no rush, no pressure.”
— Dr. Merat Ostovar & Dr. Jovan Gvozden | Aloha Dental Specialty Center, Beaverton, OR
I know many patients feel anxious about dental procedures — you’re not alone in that. What I hear most often after treatment is: “That was so much easier than I expected.” We’re here to make this as comfortable as possible for you.
Are You a Candidate for Exposure And Bond Impacted Canine?
Most patients in good general health are candidates for exposure and bond impacted canine. However, certain factors may affect your eligibility or require modifications to the treatment plan:
- Medical conditions: Uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or blood-thinning medications may require coordination with your physician before treatment.
- Bone quality: For exposure and bond impacted canine involving the jawbone, adequate bone density is essential. A CBCT 3D scan during your consultation determines this precisely.
- Smoking: Tobacco use significantly impairs healing. We strongly recommend quitting 2-4 weeks before and after any surgical procedure.
- Age: There is generally no upper age limit. What matters is your overall health, not your age. We have successfully treated patients in their 80s and 90s.
The only way to know for certain is a consultation with our board-certified specialists. Call (503) 822-0096 to schedule your evaluation — we’ll tell you honestly whether this is the right treatment for your situation.
Typical Healing Timeline:
Days 1-3: Initial healing, mild swelling managed with ice and medication. Days 4-7: Swelling subsides, gradual return to normal diet. Weeks 2-4: Soft tissue heals completely. Months 2-6: Bone remodeling and full integration (for surgical procedures). Individual recovery varies — we provide detailed post-op instructions specific to your procedure.
For additional clinical information, visit the American Dental Association (ADA).
Last reviewed by our dental specialists: March 2026. Clinical information on this page reflects current evidence-based dental practices.
Related Dental Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is impacted canine exposure?
It is a surgical procedure to uncover a canine tooth that is trapped (impacted) in the jawbone. The surgeon removes the bone and tissue covering the tooth crown, bonds a small bracket and chain to the enamel, and the orthodontist then uses the chain to gradually guide the tooth into its correct position in the arch.
How common is canine impaction?
Maxillary canine impaction occurs in approximately 1-3% of the population, making it the second most common impaction after wisdom teeth. It is about twice as common in females as males. Palatal impaction is more common than buccal impaction.
Why not just extract the impacted canine and place an implant?
The natural canine has a function that is difficult to replicate prosthetically. It guides lateral jaw movements (canine guidance), protects posterior teeth from damaging forces, maintains the alveolar bone in a critical area, and provides natural esthetics. A successfully guided canine is functionally and biologically superior to any artificial replacement.
How long does the surgical exposure procedure take?
The surgical procedure takes approximately 30-60 minutes per tooth. Bilateral exposures take longer. IV sedation is commonly used because the procedure involves working high in the palate or under the cheek tissue. Total office time including preparation and recovery is approximately 90 minutes.
Is impacted canine exposure painful?
The surgery is performed under local anesthesia with IV sedation, so you feel nothing during the procedure. Post-operative pain is moderate — comparable to wisdom tooth extraction. Swelling near the eye or in the palate is expected for 3-5 days. Prescription pain medication and ice packs manage the discomfort effectively.
How long does it take for the impacted canine to move into position?
After surgical exposure, the orthodontist begins applying traction in 1-2 weeks. The tooth typically takes 6-18 months to move into its final position, depending on the distance it must travel, the density of the bone, and the patient's individual biology. Some cases complete in as little as 6 months; deeply impacted teeth may take longer.
What happens if the impacted canine is resorbing an adjacent tooth root?
If CBCT shows that the impacted canine is actively resorbing the root of an adjacent incisor, treatment becomes more urgent. The canine must be redirected away from the adjacent tooth through surgical repositioning or orthodontic traction. In severe cases where the adjacent root is significantly resorbed, that tooth may need to be monitored or eventually replaced.
What is the difference between open and closed exposure techniques?
Open technique: a window of tissue and bone is removed, and the tooth crown is left exposed in the mouth. A bracket may be bonded immediately or at a later visit. Closed technique: the bracket and chain are bonded during surgery, the flap is sutured closed, and the tooth is pulled through the tissue orthodontically. Dr. Ostovar selects the technique based on the tooth's position and the orthodontist's treatment plan.
Does my child need to be in braces before the exposure surgery?
Usually, yes. The orthodontist typically places braces or aligners to create space in the arch for the impacted canine before the surgical exposure is performed. The arch wire or aligner system provides the anchor for the traction chain attached to the impacted tooth.
Can an impacted canine be exposed at any age?
The ideal age for exposure and orthodontic guidance is during the teens, when bone is less dense and the tooth responds more readily to orthodontic force. However, the procedure can be performed in adults. In older adults, the canine may have undergone ankylosis (fusion to bone), which makes orthodontic movement impossible — in those cases, extraction and implant placement may be the only option.
What if the impacted canine is ankylosed?
Ankylosis (fusion of the tooth to the bone) prevents orthodontic movement. If traction is applied and the tooth does not move after several months, ankylosis is suspected. The ankylosed canine must then be extracted surgically, and the space is managed with an implant, bridge, or canine substitution (moving the premolar into the canine position orthodontically).
How much does impacted canine exposure cost?
The surgical exposure fee depends on the position and depth of the impacted canine, the technique used, and the type of sedation. Insurance typically covers a portion. The total treatment cost also includes the orthodontic treatment fees over the 6-18 month movement phase. We coordinate with your orthodontist on treatment planning and provide a surgical cost estimate at consultation.
Is the gold chain that is bonded to the tooth permanent?
No. The gold chain is a temporary traction device. Once the orthodontist has guided the canine into its final position, the chain is removed and a standard orthodontic bracket is bonded for final alignment. The chain is delicate and flexible, and patients typically do not feel it once initial healing is complete.
What happens during the follow-up after surgery?
You will see us for a post-operative check at 1-2 weeks. At that visit, we evaluate healing and ensure the surgical site is healthy. The orthodontist typically activates the traction chain within 2 weeks of surgery. After that, the orthodontist manages the tooth movement at regular orthodontic appointments, and we only see you again if there are surgical concerns.
Can both impacted canines be exposed in the same surgery?
Yes. Bilateral impacted canine exposure is commonly performed in a single surgical session under IV sedation. This minimizes the number of procedures and recovery periods. The approach to each side may differ depending on the individual position of each canine.
Impacted Canine Tooth? Surgical Exposure Can Save It.
Call our Beaverton office or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you.
Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Merat Ostovar, DMD
Doctor of Dental Medicine | Implant & Specialty Dentistry | 15+ Years Experience
Aloha Dental Specialty Center — Serving Aloha, Beaverton, Hillsboro & Greater Portland
Last updated: March 19, 2026