Impacted Canines

Does your kids have stuck canines that just won’t come out? Here is how we can help!

The upper canines, also known as cuspids, are usually the last permanent teeth to erupt, other than the wisdom teeth. They emerge at or around the age of 13. The canines are unique teeth in that they play an important role in the dental arch. They are at the “corner” of the mouth between the anterior and the posterior teeth. This strategic position allows the canines to support the lips and the facial contour, as well as guiding other teeth into position when the upper and lower jaws close. As such, if they are absent, the integrity of the dental arch will be compromised too. If you suspect your child’s canines are impacted, you should consult a certified periodontist and an orthodontist for assessment.

Where are they found if they get impacted?

Two thirds of impacted canines occur in the roof of the mouth on the side of the dental arch. This is adjacent to the upper lips and cheeks. Others can be found in the jaw while elevated above the roots of any adjacent teeth.

How are impacted canines treated?

To solve a case of impacted canine, a team of dental specialists, including a periodontist and an orthodontist, works together to bring the impacted tooth to the proper position. The orthodontist will prepare adequate space for the impacted tooth to grow out into. Once the space has been established, the periodontist performs a procedure to expose the tooth and place a gold chain on the tooth. The chain will be tied to an orthodontic wire. The orthodontist will then activate the brackets to guide the tooth into the optimal position.