Exposure & Bonding
In the Clark County Area
Exposure & Bonding
When a tooth fails to erupt on its own, it cannot be moved orthodontically until it is uncovered. Exposure and bonding is the procedure that makes that possible.
Using our soft tissue laser, we surgically uncover the impacted tooth with precision and minimal trauma to the surrounding tissue. Once exposed, a small orthodontic attachment is bonded directly to the tooth surface, giving us the access we need to guide it into its correct position as part of the overall treatment plan.
The procedure is most commonly performed in adolescents and young adults whose teeth have been blocked from erupting naturally due to crowding, dense bone, or excess soft tissue. Each case is evaluated individually by Dr. Bo and Dr. Camy to determine the right timing and approach based on the tooth's position and the broader orthodontic plan.
Recovery is typically straightforward, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Exposure & Bonding
What happens if my tooth is impacted?
If a tooth is impacted, we can expose it and bond an orthodontic attachment to its surface, allowing it to be guided into alignment as part of your treatment plan.
Who is a candidate for exposure and bonding?
Most commonly adolescents and young adults whose teeth have not erupted naturally. We evaluate each case carefully to determine whether and when intervention is appropriate.
How long is recovery?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and return to normal activities within a few days.
"We’re very pleased with Dr. Kwok’s care for our daughter. From the initial consult, Dr. Kwok explained the treatment plan clearly, answered our questions, and kept us informed about progress and milestones. The whole team is friendly, gentle, and efficient, and the results so far have been excellent. Highly recommended for thoughtful, child-friendly orthodontic care."
