Dr. Alger supports the journey to a straight, healthy smile!
Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment often require minor surgical procedures to achieve the best possible results. Dr. Alger provides surgical solutions to pave the way for a healthy, confident smile that lasts.
What orthodontic procedures does Dr. Alger offer?
Dr. Alger works alongside orthodontists to craft healthy, beautiful smiles for patients of all ages receiving orthodontic treatment. He partners with orthodontic specialists to ensure that every procedure supports the alignment process, oral health, and long-term stability of the teeth. To complement traditional braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic appliances, Dr. Alger provides several key procedures that help achieve optimal results.
Tissue Grafts
Patients who wear braces or clear aligners may sometimes experience gum recession that leaves the roots of their teeth exposed. This condition can cause tooth sensitivity, discomfort, or an uneven gum line. To address this, Dr. Alger performs tissue grafting procedures that strengthen and rebuild gum tissue. These procedures support healthy gums, improve oral hygiene, and protect against further recession during or after orthodontic treatment.
Esthetic Crown Lengthening
An attractive smile relies on both straight teeth and balanced gums. When excessive gum tissue covers too much of the tooth enamel, the teeth can appear short, making the smile look gummy. Through esthetic crown lengthening, Dr. Alger carefully reshapes the gum line to create a more even and natural appearance. This treatment, when combined with orthodontic care, enhances the overall result—helping patients achieve a confident, harmonious smile that complements their newly aligned teeth.
Frenectomy
A small band of connective tissue known as the frenum can sometimes interfere with orthodontic progress. If the frenum attaches too close to the teeth, it may cause gaps to reopen after braces or clear aligner treatment. A simple procedure called a frenectomy can prevent this issue by gently repositioning the tissue. In most cases, Dr. Alger completes this minor treatment in less than 30 minutes. The procedure may involve the use of a dental laser for precision and comfort, and it’s typically performed before braces are removed to prevent spacing issues.
Implants
In some orthodontic treatment plans, maintaining or creating space for a missing tooth is part of the long-term goal. Once tooth alignment is complete, a dental implant may be recommended to replace the missing tooth and preserve jawbone health. Dr. Alger collaborates closely with orthodontists and general dentists to ensure the implant is placed correctly and timed appropriately—usually after the bone has finished growing for younger patients. This teamwork ensures that the final result is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Eruption of Impacted Teeth
When certain teeth, such as upper canines, fail to erupt naturally, orthodontic treatment may be combined with a minor surgical procedure. Dr. Alger can surgically expose the impacted tooth, allowing the orthodontist to gently guide it into its correct position using braces or aligners. This approach is common for complex orthodontic cases involving soft tissue or bony impaction. By exposing the tooth, Dr. Alger supports proper alignment and ensures that patients can achieve a complete, balanced smile.
Supporting orthodontic treatment with periodontal expertise
Successful orthodontic treatment requires more than just straightening teeth—it depends on the health and stability of the surrounding gums and bone. As a periodontal specialist, Dr. Alger provides the surgical support necessary to create the best foundation for orthodontic results. His experience helps orthodontic patients maintain strong gums, healthy bone levels, and proper oral hygiene during treatment with traditional braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances.
Whether addressing gum recession, excess tissue, or impacted teeth, each procedure is customized to the patient’s individual needs. By incorporating techniques such as tissue grafting, esthetic crown lengthening, and frenectomy, Dr. Alger ensures that orthodontic patients can enjoy both a straight smile and long-term gum health.
Your orthodontic journey and oral health
Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in your dental health and confidence. Alongside orthodontic care, maintaining proper oral hygiene, attending regular appointments, and managing gum health are key to achieving faster results and preventing issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, or bone loss. Dr. Alger’s periodontal treatments are designed to complement orthodontic procedures, supporting both the aesthetic and functional goals of your smile.
Soft tissue or bony impacted teeth sometimes will not erupt into the mouth on their own. That was the case with this patient’s upper right canine tooth.
Dr. Alger was able to surgically uncover this young man’s canine tooth. His orthodontist was then able to move the tooth into proper alignment.