Impacted Canines - What You Need to Know
Posted on 4/15/2025 by Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery |
 The canine teeth, also known as cuspids, are the pointed teeth located next to the incisors at the front of the mouth. They play a crucial role in biting and tearing food, as well as guiding the jaw into the proper position. Impacted canines, unfortunately, don't erupt properly and remain stuck beneath the gum line or within the jawbone. This can cause various problems, both functional and aesthetic.
What Causes Impacted Canines?
Several factors can contribute to impacted canines:
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Insufficient space: The jaw might not have enough space for the canine to erupt, causing it to become trapped behind other teeth. |
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Developmental abnormalities: The canine tooth itself might have an abnormal shape or size, hindering its eruption. |
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Misguided eruption path: The tooth might start erupting in the wrong direction, becoming lodged within the jawbone. |
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Other teeth blocking the path: Nearby teeth, such as baby teeth that haven't fallen out or impacted premolars, can prevent the canine from erupting. |
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Cysts or tumors: In rare cases, cysts or tumors may develop around the impacted canine, further impeding its eruption. |
Signs and Symptoms of Impacted Canines
Impacted canines often go unnoticed because they aren't visible in the mouth. However, some telltale signs can indicate their presence:
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Gaps in the smile: A missing canine in the upper or lower jaw creates a noticeable gap. |
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Crowded teeth: Adjacent teeth might shift and crowd together as they try to compensate for the absent canine. |
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Difficulty chewing: The absence of canines can affect the ability to bite and tear food effectively. |
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Facial asymmetry: In severe cases, impacted canines can affect the growth and development of the jaw, leading to facial asymmetry. |
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Pain or swelling: If an impacted canine becomes infected or irritates surrounding tissues, it can cause pain and swelling in the affected area. |
Diagnosis and Treatment of Impacted Canines
If you suspect an impacted canine, visiting an oral surgeon for evaluation is crucial. X-rays and 3D scans will reveal the location, angulation, and potential complications associated with the impacted tooth. Based on this assessment, the oral surgeon will recommend the most suitable treatment plan, which can involve:
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Orthodontic treatment: Braces or clear aligners might be used to create space for the impacted canine, guiding it into its proper position. |
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Surgical exposure and repositioning: The oral surgeon will surgically access the tooth and carefully guide it into the desired position using orthodontic attachments. |
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Extraction: In cases where the impacted canine cannot be salvaged or poses significant risks, extraction might be necessary. This may require further orthodontic intervention to close the resulting gap and maintain proper dental alignment. |
Potential Consequences of Untreated Impacted Canines
Leaving impacted canines untreated can lead to various complications, including:
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Damage to nearby teeth: The pressure from an impacted canine can damage the roots of adjacent teeth, increasing the risk of cavities, infections, and eventual tooth loss. |
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Cyst formation: Impacted canines are more susceptible to developing cysts, which can damage the surrounding bone and teeth. |
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Gum disease: Food particles and bacteria can become trapped around the impacted tooth, increasing the risk of gum infections and inflammation. |
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Bone loss: The lack of stimulation from the unerupted canine can lead to bone loss in the jaw, affecting facial structure and potentially impacting future implant placement. |
Conclusion
Impacted canines require prompt diagnosis and treatment by an experienced oral surgeon. By addressing the issue early, you can prevent potential complications and ensure your dental health and facial aesthetics remain optimal. Scheduling regular dental checkups and consulting an oral surgeon if you suspect an impacted canine are crucial in maintaining a healthy and functional smile.
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