Surgical Uprighting

Occasionally, as children grow and the adult teeth gradually come into the mouth, the lower (and sometimes the upper) adult second molars do not properly erupt into the arch and become stuck, often times under the distal (back) half of the adult first molars. Many times, the adult third molar, or wisdom tooth, can also contribute to this problem as well.

In order to treat these impacted second molars, children will often need to be in braces. The Orthodontist will work with the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon to coordinate the treatment. The surgical treatment will often include removal of the developing wisdom tooth, some minor contouring of the bone around the second molar, and a surgical elevation of the impacted second molar. Often the procedure is done with intravenous sedation and local anesthesia in the office. The tooth will then be stabilized in the jawbone with the help of the braces or a small dental splint. In addition, the surgeon will sometimes place a bone graft in the portion of the socket created by elevating the crown of the second molar to allow the area to heal faster.