The apically repositioned flap in tooth exposure

Methods of exposing impacted teeth in order to bring them into the line of the arch include gingivectomy, the apically repositioned flap and closed eruption techniques. These procedures aim to facilitate the eruption of the impacted tooth with a minimum of disruption or damage to the tooth itself or adjacent structures. The aim of this paper is to discuss the various surgical methods of exposing impacted teeth and to help to identify where the use of the apically repositioned flap is indicated. Clinical examples are presented and a surgical method for carrying out this procedure recommended.