Impacted Canines
Impacted canines occur when adult canine teeth fail to erupt properly, often requiring orthodontic guidance, surgical exposure, or extraction to prevent complications like cysts, root damage, or misalignment, with tailored sedation options ensuring a comfortable treatment experience.
What Are Impacted Canines?
-
Definition: An impacted canine is an adult (permanent) canine tooth that has not erupted into its correct position in the mouth and remains partially or fully trapped in the jawbone or gum.
-
How Common is It?: The upper canine is the second most commonly impacted tooth (after wisdom teeth). It can happen on one or both sides of the mouth.
Why Do Canines Become Impacted?
- Lack of space in the jaw or crowding.
- Abnormal eruption path or tooth development.
- Genetic factors can predispose some individuals to have impacted canines.
Treatment Options
-
Orthodontic (Multidisciplinary) Approach
-
Exposure and Alignment: A small surgical procedure (exposure) may be carried out by an oral surgeon to uncover the impacted canine. After exposure, an orthodontic appliance is attached to gently guide the tooth into its correct position over time using braces or aligners
-
Extraction and Alignment: If the impacted tooth is unlikely to move or poses risks, extraction may be recommended. The remaining space can then be closed using braces or aligners.
-
-
Extraction and Replacement
If the remaining space after extraction is not suitable to be closed up, then a replacement will be needed.
-
Implant placement: Once the site has healed (and depending on individual conditions such as jawbone quality and growth completion), an implant may be considered to replace the missing tooth. Alternative options such as bridge and removable partial plate are also good options, especially in young patients.
-
-
Extraction (Removal) Only
In some cases, extraction of the impacted canine (without further tooth replacement) may be considered, particularly if there is crowding.
Potential Risks And Complications
- Risk of Devitalisation of Adjacent Teeth: During surgical exposure or tooth movement, neighbouring teeth can sometimes lose their blood supply, potentially requiring a future root canal treatment.
- Risk of Ankylosis: The impacted tooth root can sometimes be fused to the surrounding bone, preventing normal movement. This may complicate orthodontic treatment.
- Risk of Cyst Development: If an impacted tooth is left untreated, there is a possibility of a cyst forming around the tooth, which can damage surrounding bone and teeth.
- Damage to Adjacent Tooth Roots: An impacted canine can cause resorption (wearing away) of nearby tooth roots if left untreated, leading to pain or potential tooth loss.
Your Comfort: Anaesthetic & Sedation Options
We prioritize your comfort and peace of mind with tailored sedation options:
- Local Anaesthesia – Numbs the area while you remain awake.
- IV Sedation – Induces deep relaxation with minimal memory of the procedure.
- General Anaesthesia – Allows you to sleep through the surgery.
Dr Praganta will help you choose the best option based on your needs and medical history.
What To Expect: Before & After Surgery
- Recovery Time: After surgical exposure or extraction, mild discomfort and swelling are common for a few days. Pain relief medications and follow-up appointments will be arranged.
- Outcome with Orthodontic Treatment: When successful, the impacted canine is guided into place, improving both appearance and function. Treatment times vary depending on individual cases.
- Outcome with Implant: Implants can provide a long-term solution once healing is complete. Success rates are generally high but depend on your overall oral health, age, proper care, and maintenance.
At Otago Oral Surgery & Implant Centre we understand that any surgical procedure can feel overwhelming, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Dr Jesslyn Praganta and our caring team are committed to providing expert, compassionate care in a comfortable environment. If you have any questions about impacted canines, we invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss your options. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier, pain-free smile!