impacted canines

The canines, or eye teeth, normally erupt into the mouth between the ages of 11 and 13. They are the last of the front teeth to erupt and are therefore more likely to become impacted. Sometimes, one or both canines develop in the wrong position and become impacted. The majority impact towards the roof of the mouth (palate) behind the front teeth, but some impact on the cheek side.

The key to treating impacted canines is early detection via a clinical and radiographic (x-ray) examination. If canine teeth are missing or very slow in fully erupting, the dentist can make recommendations for proper treatment. The first step of treatment begins with determining what has caused the canines to become impacted, such as extra teeth, lack of space due to crowding, a growth, or in some cases there is a family history. The older the patient becomes, the less likely it is that an impacted canine tooth will erupt naturally. These teeth can become directly fused to the bone or ankylosed. Early diagnosis and referral to the orthodontist and surgeon is vital.

Treatment Options

• Exposure & bonding of the tooth to bring it into the correct position. This may not be possible if the tooth is in a difficult position or ankylosed.
• Leave the impacted canine as it is and accept the appearance. There is a small chance that the canine could cause problems in the future by damaging the neighboring teeth or by formation of a cyst.
• Surgical removal of the impacted tooth.

Your surgeon and/or orthodontist will advise you on the best treatment option.