Surgical exposure of an impacted maxillary canine and increasing a band of keratinized gingiva

Abstract

An adequate amount of keratinized gingival tissue that is under proper plaque control, is a fundamental requirement for periodontal health. When the teeth erupt uneventfully in the center of the alveolar ridge, an adequate amount of keratinized tissue will surround the erupted permanent tooth. Labially or buccally erupting teeth show reduced dimensions of the gingiva as abnormal eruption of permanent teeth restricts or eliminates the keratinized tissue between the erupting cusp and the deciduous tooth. A lack of attached gingiva poses a potential risk for gingival recession in labially or buccally erupted teeth due to the possibility of accumulation of plaque and/or traumatic tooth-brushing during subsequent orthodontic treatment. A good understanding between the orthodontist and periodontist along with proper management of periodontal tissues, can prevent these problems. Various surgical techniques can be employed to uncover impacted teeth. This paper discusses the validity of utilizing periodontal surgery to increase a band of keratinized tissue in a case of an impacted canine erupting from the alveolar mucosa.

Various surgical methods of impacted maxillary canine exposure: A case series

“…[ 8 ] Meticulous planning of mucogingival interceptive surgeries done judiciously at the right time with appropriate technique may prevent future mucogingival problems. [ 9 ]…”

Surgical Management of Unerupted Canines: A Case Report

“…Gingival recession entertains the increased plaque accumulation and trauma while tooth-brushing the orthodontic treatment. A better understanding is required among the orthodontist and the periodontist and proper management of periodontal tissues to prevent such problems [7]. This case series included the surgical exposure of canines by closed and open methods using a scalpel as well as electrocautery.…”

Nonsurgical Treatment of a Case with Skeletal Class III Malocclusion and Impacted Premolars: A Case Report

“…An impacted tooth is one that is embedded in the alveolus so that its eruption is prevented or the tooth is locked in position by bone or the adjacent teeth. 3 The prevalence of impacted premolars has been found to vary according to age. 3 The overall prevalence in adults has been reported to be 0.5%.…”

“…3 The prevalence of impacted premolars has been found to vary according to age. 3 The overall prevalence in adults has been reported to be 0.5%. 4,5 Premolar impactions may be due to over retained or infraocclusal ankylosed primary molars, mesial drift of teeth arising from premature loss of primary molars; ectopic positioning of the developing premolar tooth buds; or pathology such as inflammatory or dentigerous cysts.…”