Canines — sometimes called “eye teeth” or “cuspids” — are the four pointed teeth designed for cutting and tearing firm foods like meat. The upper canines are some of the last adult teeth to erupt.
Unfortunately, about 1 in 50 people will experience an impaction of their cuspids. Even if their canines partially erupt, the tooth may cut through the gums extremely high, over other teeth in the mouth.
The good news is that addressing impacted canines early can make it possible to bring them down into the appropriate alignment.
How it Works
Typically, with impacted canines, their position will determine who performs the first step of care. It may be that we uncover the tooth in our office or refer you to an oral surgeon for the procedure. Once the tooth is uncovered and we can physically access it, a bracket is attached to the tooth the same way we bond appliances to other teeth.
From there, an orthodontic system uses the stability of adjacent teeth to help pull the canine down, with the help of the attached appliances. The only difference is that instead of straightening teeth that are crowded or gapped, we’re adjusting the occlusal (biting relationship) “up and down” positioning.
The key to effective impacted canine treatment is to start early, before the tooth’s full root anatomy is completely developed. The earlier you have your child’s bite evaluated, the more likely you will catch significant bite concerns like an impacted canine while it’s still “treatable”.
Reserve a Consultation
Is your child’s tooth eruption delayed? Has your family dentist mentioned an impacted canine in your child’s mouth? Reserve an exam with William R. Kincer – Orthodontist today!