Posted by When people think of oral surgery, they often associate it with wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or jaw surgeries. However, another common procedure performed by oral surgeons is the treatment of impacted canines. Canines, also known as “eye teeth,” play an important role in our dental structure by helping guide other teeth into place and are crucial for biting and chewing food. When these teeth don’t emerge properly, they become impacted and may require oral surgery to correct the issue.
What Are Impacted Canines?
Canines are pointed teeth located near the front of the mouth, typically next to the incisors. They are among the last permanent teeth to come in, usually emerging between the ages of 11 and 13. However, in some cases, the canines fail to erupt through the gum line properly, becoming “impacted.” This means they are stuck in the gum or bone and cannot move into their correct position.
Canine impaction is most common with the upper canines, and it can lead to a variety of dental problems if left untreated.
Why Do Canines Become Impacted?
- Crowding of Teeth: When there is insufficient space in the mouth due to crowding, the canine may not have enough room to emerge.
- Abnormal Tooth Development: In some cases, neighboring teeth or genetic factors can cause the canines to develop at an angle that prevents them from erupting properly.
- Primary Teeth Not Falling Out: If the baby teeth (primary teeth) don’t fall out in time, they can block the permanent canines from coming in.
Why Impacted Canines Need Treatment
Impacted canines should not be ignored, as they can cause a range of dental issues that may worsen over time. Here are a few reasons why it’s important to seek treatment for impacted canines:
- Misalignment of Teeth: Impacted canines can push other teeth out of alignment, causing crowding, improper bites (malocclusion), and cosmetic issues.
- Damage to Neighboring Teeth: If the canine remains impacted, it can put pressure on neighboring teeth, leading to root damage or weakening of those teeth.
- Increased Risk of Cysts or Infections: An impacted tooth can sometimes develop a cyst or become infected, leading to further complications that may require more extensive surgery.
Treatment from oral surgeon in Troy, MI not only corrects the positioning of the teeth but also helps to prevent long-term dental health problems.
Treatment Options for Impacted Canines
The treatment for impacted canines depends on the severity of the impaction, the position of the tooth, and the patient’s age. There are two main options:
1. Orthodontic Treatment
In cases where the canine is only partially impacted, orthodontic treatment may be enough to guide the tooth into its proper position. Braces or aligners are used to create space in the mouth and gently move the impacted tooth into alignment.
Orthodontic Treatment Steps:
- Space Creation: Braces or other orthodontic devices are used to create space in the dental arch for the impacted canine.
- Eruption Process: The oral surgeon may expose the impacted canine by removing some gum tissue or bone to help it erupt naturally.
This approach is commonly used in children or teenagers, as their teeth and bones are still developing and more responsive to orthodontic adjustments.
2. Surgical Exposure and Braces
For more severely impacted canines, oral surgery may be necessary to help the tooth erupt. This procedure is known as surgical exposure and involves uncovering the impacted tooth, allowing it to be guided into place with the help of braces.
Surgical Exposure Steps:
- Gum Tissue Removal: The oral surgeon will remove a small portion of gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth.
- Attachment of a Bracket and Chain: Once exposed, a small orthodontic bracket is bonded to the tooth, and a chain is attached to it. This chain is connected to the braces, and over time, gentle pressure is applied to move the tooth into its correct position.
This method is often used for older teenagers and adults whose teeth are fully developed, and natural eruption is unlikely without intervention.
Conclusion
Impacted canines are a common dental issue, and when left untreated, they can lead to a range of problems, from misaligned teeth to infections. Fortunately, oral surgeons can perform surgical procedures to expose and guide the impacted tooth into its proper position, ensuring healthy tooth alignment and improved dental function. Whether through orthodontic treatment or surgical intervention, addressing impacted canines early is key to preventing long-term complications and achieving a beautiful, healthy smile.
If you suspect you or your child has impacted canines, consult your dentist or an oral surgeon to discuss treatment options and ensure timely care.
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FAQs
1. What happens if an impacted canine is left untreated?
If left untreated, impacted canines can cause misalignment of teeth, damage to neighboring teeth, and increase the risk of cysts or infections. It’s important to address the issue to prevent further dental complications.
2. Is the surgery to expose an impacted canine painful?
The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort or swelling may occur afterward, but this can be managed with pain relievers and proper care.
3. How long does it take for an impacted canine to move into position?
The time it takes for an impacted canine to move into its proper position varies depending on the severity of the impaction. In most cases, it can take several months for the tooth to fully erupt after surgery.
4. Can impacted canines be treated without surgery?
In some cases, particularly in younger patients, impacted canines can be treated with orthodontic devices like braces or aligners. However, if the impaction is severe, surgical exposure may be necessary.