Exposure and Ligation

Exposure & Ligation of Impacted Teeth

Sometimes a permanent tooth does not erupt normally and remains impacted beneath the gum or bone. This most commonly involves the canine teeth and may require a coordinated approach between your orthodontist and oral surgeon to help guide the tooth into its proper position.

During an exposure and ligation procedure, the oral surgeon carefully uncovers the impacted tooth and attaches a small orthodontic bracket and chain to it. The chain is then connected to the orthodontic appliance, allowing your orthodontist to apply gentle, controlled forces over time to guide the tooth into the dental arch.

This collaborative treatment can help bring an impacted tooth into proper alignment while preserving the patient’s natural tooth whenever appropriate.

Impacted canine exposed with gold chain attached for orthodontic traction
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Trusted Oral Surgery Expertise

ABOMS

Our practice offers comprehensive oral and maxillofacial surgery, and our board-certified surgeons specialize in dental implants, advanced bone grafting, wisdom teeth removal, oral pathology, and IV sedation to restore oral health, function, and confidence.

Wisdom Teeth

Impacted or crowded wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and shifting of nearby teeth, so our team removes them before they cause lasting problems with your bite and oral health.

Dental Implants

Dental implants replace missing tooth roots, providing a secure foundation for natural-looking, fixed or removable replacement teeth.

Bone Grafting 

Bone grafting restores lost bone and encourages new bone growth, creating a strong foundation for dental implants while improving both function and appearance.

IV Sedation

IV sedation helps reduce anxiety and maximize comfort during oral surgery, allowing patients to feel deeply relaxed while our surgical team carefully monitors their safety throughout the procedure.

Testimonials

“The team is always caring, comforting and professional. Dr. Walzer is someone I trust to make me feel at ease with his sweet sense of humor and great listening ear to meet my needs. I have no problem referring anyone to him.”
“I had an excellent experience with Dr. Sullivan from start to finish. The implant procedure was handled with exceptional skill and professionalism, and the staff made me feel at ease throughout the entire process. Everything was explained clearly beforehand, which really helped ease any anxiety I had going in.”

“I’ve seen Dr. Hlousek on a number of occasions and am impressed not only by his surgical expertise and knowledge but how caring he is. He explained everything in advance and even called me the day after my procedure to see how I was feeling and to call if I needed anything. He has a big heart and even donates his valuable time and skills to those less fortunate… my kind of doctor!”

“Oral Surgery Specialists are wonderful. From the front desk staff, to the dental assistants, to the doctors, you couldn’t ask for better care. Dr. Jones was kind and compassionate, talking me through everything he was doing. I highly recommend this practice.”

“The team was tremendous. Everyone was extremely nice and explained the whole process in manner that was easy to absorb when you’re anxious about why you are there. During the procedure, Dr Chambers and the whole team were incredibly efficient and well orchestrated, all while being very attentive to pain levels. Absolutely an auto recommend.”

“Dr. Kufta has the hands of an angel!! He and his team are the absolute best at what they do. After four visits, they are still warm, professional, and excellent listeners who always make me feel comfortable and well cared for.”