Impacted canines are teeth that fail to emerge properly into the mouth, often because they are blocked by other teeth or misaligned. The upper canine teeth, or “eyeteeth,” are prone to impaction. These teeth are essential for a proper bite as they guide other teeth into position. Left untreated, impacted canines can cause misalignment, crowding, or even damage to adjacent teeth, leading to long-term bite problems and aesthetic issues.
Impacted Canines
Impacted canines are common but crucial to address. These "stuck" teeth play a vital role in your bite and overall dental health. We work closely with orthodontists to guide impacted canines into their proper place, helping to prevent future complications.
Impacted Canines Treatment for a Healthier Bite
Impacted canines, particularly your upper eyeteeth, are vital for a balanced bite. At Midwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we collaborate with orthodontists to create space and expose these critical teeth, helping them erupt naturally. If the tooth won’t move on its own, we’ll surgically expose and assist in guiding it into place. Our team ensures a seamless process to bring your smile back to full health.
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Process
Surgery for impacted canines typically involves a procedure called exposure and bracketing. In this process, the oral surgeon lifts the gum tissue covering the impacted tooth to expose it. If necessary, a baby tooth or extra tissue blocking the tooth’s path may be removed. Once the tooth is exposed, a small orthodontic bracket is bonded to it, with a tiny chain attached to it. This chain is linked to braces. Over time, gentle force guides the tooth into its proper position.
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Recovery
Recovery from impacted canine surgery is usually quick. Most patients experience mild discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications like Tylenol or Advil. A soft diet is recommended for the first few days to avoid irritating the surgical site. Swelling typically subsides within a week, and patients can resume their regular diet as they feel comfortable. Your orthodontist will usually activate the chain 1-2 weeks post-surgery to begin moving the tooth into place. Full healing and tooth alignment can take several months to a year.
FAQ
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What are impacted canines, and why do they need treatment?
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Can an impacted canine tooth fix itself?
No, an impacted canine tooth typically won’t correct itself without intervention. Canines are crucial for proper bite alignment and aesthetic balance, and they often become impacted due to overcrowding or abnormal positioning.
Treatment options include orthodontic assistance to guide the tooth into place or surgical intervention to uncover and reposition the tooth. Consulting with your oral surgeon is essential to determine the best approach for addressing an impacted canine.
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What happens if you leave an impacted canine tooth untreated?
Leaving an impacted canine tooth untreated can lead to several complications. Over time, the impacted tooth may press against adjacent teeth, causing crowding or misalignment. This pressure can also damage the roots of neighboring teeth, potentially leading to tooth decay or even tooth loss. Additionally, an untreated, impacted canine can increase the risk of cysts or infections developing around the tooth, which may require surgical treatment. For these reasons, it’s essential to address an impacted canine tooth with the guidance of a dental professional to prevent further oral health issues.
Related Services
Tooth Extraction
In some cases, extraction may be necessary if the impacted canine is causing crowding or cannot be properly aligned with orthodontics.
Tooth Extraction
Pre-Prosthetic Surgery
In cases where impacted canines affect the structure of the jaw or gums, pre-prosthetic surgery can help prepare the area for future restorations or orthodontic treatments.
Pre-Prosthetic Surgery