Expert Care for Impacted Canine Teeth
An impacted tooth is a tooth that is blocked or “stuck” underneath the gum line, and does not erupt into its correct position on its own. Most often, an impacted tooth will be a third molar, or wisdom tooth, though it is a common occurrence in canine teeth as well.
Canine teeth are located at the corners of the arch, next to the incisors. They have one pointed edge (cusp), which is used for holding, grasping, and tearing food. Because of the canine’s long root, they are very strong, stable teeth. Canines are usually the last teeth to erupt, and usually do so when your child is around the age of 12 or 13.
Supernumerary Teeth
Supernumerary teeth are extra teeth that develop in addition to the normal set. These teeth may appear anywhere in the mouth and can cause alignment issues, crowding, or delays in the eruption of permanent teeth. Treatment often involves removal to restore proper alignment and function.
Congenitally Missing Teeth
Congenitally missing teeth occur when one or more teeth fail to develop. This condition can affect both appearance and oral function. Treatment options, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures, can help restore the smile and improve bite function, depending on the severity and location of the missing teeth.
Expose & Bond (Canines)
Expose and bond is a procedure used to bring an unerupted canine tooth into proper alignment. A small surgical incision exposes the tooth, which is then attached to a bracket for guided eruption. This treatment helps ensure the canine tooth erupts correctly, improving both function and appearance.
Early Detection and Treatment of Impacted Canines
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic examination by the age of seven, which allows us the opportunity to monitor your child’s teeth eruption and detect impactions early.
If your little one does develop an impacted canine, a simple surgical procedure is recommended to assist the eruption of the tooth. We will surgically expose the tooth by cutting a small flap in the surrounding gum. After the tooth is exposed, we will either leave the tooth to erupt on its own, or attach an orthodontic bracket to the tooth to help guide its descent.
With early detection and combined surgical and orthodontic treatment, impacted canines can be allowed to erupt and/or be guided to the most ideal position in your son or daughter’s mouth.
