Impacted and Missing Teeth
Impacted teeth
Impactions can be caused by improper positioning of the developing tooth bud. This can cause the tooth to fail to erupt into the mouth. Impactions can also be caused by early loss of baby teeth or dental crowding. Wisdom teeth are the most commonly impacted teeth. Canines and premolars are the next most frequently impacted teeth.
An impaction should be corrected because it can:
- cause damage to the root structure of adjacent teeth
- become cystic and lead to bone destruction
- interfere with the sinus cavity
- leave unwanted spaces
- lead to improper functioning of the teeth
- cause premature wear of the teeth
- cause asymmetric alignment of the teeth
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How can impacted teeth be orthodontically corrected?
Usually the impacted tooth is exposed over the course of a few months and brought into the correct position of the mouth. Correction of impacted teeth may involve a minor surgical procedure performed by an oral surgeon working closely with Dr. Ziaja. Typically, a bracket is placed on the impacted tooth. Dr. Ziaja will then guide eruption of the impacted tooth into proper position. Learn more about impacted teeth by downloading this brochure from the AAO and viewing the video.
Missing teeth
Missing teeth is the absence of a tooth or teeth that should normally be present. This can be caused by trauma or lack of development. Genetic inheritance is usually the cause of a tooth’s failure to develop.
This problem should be corrected because it can:
- cause improper functioning of teeth
- cause premature wear of teeth
- cause asymmetric alignment of the teeth
- make your smile less attractive
- leave unwanted spaces
- lead to gum disease or periodontal bone loss and possibly adjacent tooth loss
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after
How can missing teeth be orthodontically corrected?
Depending upon the situation, the space can be closed with braces or opened for tooth replacement. A bridge or dental implant are restorative options if a space is created.
We are here to make your and your child’s orthodontic experience as comfortable and successful as possible. Please give Dr. Ziaja a call at 586-247-6453 or contact us for more information and to set up a FREE orthodontic examination where we can discuss how to Create the Magic of Your Smile!