Impacted Canines
Mt Laurel, NJ
Impacted Canines provided by Dr. Jaffery
in Mt Laurel, NJ at Union Mill Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center
 If your dentist has used the term "impacted" when referring to your canines, you might not be sure what exactly that means. An impacted tooth is one that is "stuck" and unable to erupt through the gums in order to function as intended.
This often happens with the third molars, otherwise known as the wisdom teeth. These teeth tend to get stuck in the back portion of the jaw, and if left untreated, they can develop a painful infection as well as a host of other problems. Since most of us don't need the wisdom teeth, they are often extracted if they start to develop a problem.
The upper eyetooth, otherwise known as the maxillary cuspid, is the second most likely tooth to be impacted. This tooth plays a critical role both your bite and the dental arch. The cuspid teeth serve as strong biting teeth, and they will have the longest roots of any of your teeth. They will be the first teeth that touch when you close your jaws together, and they will serve as a guide to ensure the rest of your teeth are in proper alignment.
The cuspid teeth of the maxilla are usually the last of the front teeth to erupt and move into place. This typically happens around the time we turn 13 years old, and any space that was left between the front teeth on the top jaw will close together tightly. If a cuspid is impacted, your dentist will make every effort to get it to erupt into its proper position.
These techniques can be used on any impacted tooth of either jaw, but mostly they are applied to the upper eyeteeth. About 60% of these impacted eyeteeth will be located on the roof of the mouth, and the remaining teeth are found in the supporting bone, but stuck in a position that leaves them elevated above the roots of the adjacent teeth.
Successful Treatment of Impacted Eyeteeth Requires Early Recognition
Impacted eyeteeth become more of a challenge as a patient gets older. Older patients will be more likely to experience an impacted tooth that doesn't erupt on its own, even if there is plenty of space available for it.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it is recommended that a panoramic x-ray, known as a panorex screening, be taken after a thorough oral exam when patients are around seven years old.
This will be done to count the teeth and to determine if there might be any problems with the adult teeth erupting as planned. It is also important to determine that all the adult teeth are present and that there are no issues with crowding or unusual growths that may prevent proper development.
Exams of these adult teeth in children will usually be done by your dentist, and if problems are detected, you can be referred to an orthodontist. Treatment of problems involving teeth that are failing to erupt can involve placing braces on open spaces to encourage proper eruption. A referral may also be made to our oral surgeon for extraction of baby teeth that need to be removed, or select adult teeth that could be preventing the impacted eyeteeth from erupting. Any growths or extra teeth that could be blocking the eruption of healthy adult teeth will also need to be removed.
If treatment is taken so that an eruption path is created and the space can be opened up before the age of 12, there is an excellent chance that an impacted tooth will erupt on its own. However, if the eyetooth is allowed to continue developing up until 13 or 14 years of age, it likely will not erupt on its own even with the necessary space cleared.
If a patient is much older, there is a higher chance that the eyetooth will be permanently fused into position, and the only way that tooth will budge will be to extract it. At that point, an alternate treatment like a dental implant can be used to replace the missing tooth and to improve the structure and appearance of the arch.
When Proper Space Is Available but the Eyeteeth Don't Erupt
In situations where the eyeteeth don't erupt on their own, the oral surgeon and orthodontist will collaborate to attempt to get these teeth to erupt. Each situation will be evaluated independently, but treatment will typically involve braces being put onto the teeth, at least those found on the upper arch.
A space will then be opened so that there is plenty of room for the impacted tooth to erupt and move into its correct position. If the baby tooth in this position has not yet fallen out, it will typically be left alone until the space for the adult tooth is ready. Once the space has opened up, our oral surgeon will usually be consulted to have the impacted tooth exposed and to put a metal bracket into place.
The process of exposing the tooth will involve a simple procedure performed in your surgeon's office. First, the gum situated on top of the tooth will be lifted so that it exposes the tooth that is hidden underneath. Any baby teeth that might be present and in the way will be removed at this time.
Once the permanent, impacted tooth has been exposed, the oral surgeon will bond a bracket to it, and this bracket will contain a tiny gold chain. The chain will be guided back to the orthodontic arch wires to temporarily attach it to the braces. In some cases, the surgeon will leave the exposed tooth uncovered by stitching the gum up above it to make a window that covers the teeth. However, in most cases, the gum will be returned back to its original state and sutured so that only the chain remains visible and exits through a small hole within the gums.
Within two weeks of your surgery, you will return to see your orthodontist. At this time, a rubber band will be attached to the chain so that a light pulling force can be placed on the tooth that is impacted. This will slowly begin the process of moving the tooth up and out of the gums and into its proper position within the dental arch. This process will be carefully controlled and can take a full year to complete, and it is important to remember that the end goal is to get the tooth to move out of the gums, not to remove it.
After the tooth has been moved into its final position, the gum surrounding it should be evaluated to ensure that it is healthy and strong enough to last for a lifetime, especially considering all the teeth brushing and chewing activities it will be exposed to over the years.
In certain situations, especially when a tooth has needed to move a considerable distance, minor gum surgery may be required in order to bulk up the tissue over a relocated tooth. This will help the gum to remain healthy, and your orthodontist will explain the process to you if it applies to your unique situation.
These principles can be used for virtually any impacted tooth in the mouth. It is common for both upper eyeteeth to be impacted, and in these situations, the space formed by the dental arch will be prepared on each side. When your orthodontist is ready, an oral surgeon will expose and bracket both impacted teeth, and this can be done at the same time so that you only have to heal from one surgery.
The anterior teeth (cuspids and incisors) and bicuspids are small teeth that only have single roots, so they tend to be easier to erupt than the rear molars in the event of an impaction. The molars are much bigger and will have several roots, making it more difficult to move them. Therefore, the orthodontic techniques needed in moving an impacted molar tend to be much more complicated due to their location at the back of the arch.
FAQ About Impacted Canines
What is an impacted canine?
An impacted canine is a tooth that has not emerged through the gums into the correct position in the dental arch. Canines, also known as eyeteeth, are often impacted due to lack of space, improper alignment, or other obstructions. This condition can affect both aesthetics and function, requiring surgical intervention to correct.
What are the symptoms of an impacted canine?
Symptoms of an impacted canine may include pain, swelling, or infection in the affected area. Additionally, there may be visible gaps or misalignment in the dental arch, and neighboring teeth may shift out of position. Sometimes, impacted canines cause no symptoms and are only detected through routine dental X-rays.
How is an impacted canine diagnosed?
An impacted canine is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination and imaging studies. Dentists and oral surgeons use X-rays, such as panoramic or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), to determine the exact position of the impacted tooth and plan appropriate treatment.
What treatment options are available for impacted canines?
Treatment for impacted canines may involve orthodontic intervention to create space and guide the tooth into its proper position. In some cases, surgical exposure of the tooth and attachment of an orthodontic bracket may be necessary. If the tooth cannot be repositioned, extraction may be recommended.
How long does it take to treat an impacted canine?
The duration of treatment for an impacted canine can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen treatment method. Orthodontic treatment can take several months to a few years, while surgical procedures typically require a shorter recovery period. Your oral surgeon and orthodontist will provide a more specific timeline based on your individual needs.
Are impacted canines common?
Impacted canines are relatively common, especially in the upper jaw. They are the second most frequently impacted teeth after wisdom teeth. Early detection and treatment are important to prevent complications and ensure proper dental alignment.
What are the risks of leaving an impacted canine untreated?
Leaving an impacted canine untreated can lead to several complications, including infection, cyst formation, damage to adjacent teeth, and misalignment of the dental arch. It can also result in aesthetic concerns and potential functional issues with biting and chewing.
Does insurance cover the treatment for impacted canines?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the treatment costs for impacted canines, including surgical procedures and orthodontic treatment. Coverage can vary widely, so it is important to check with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your plan and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.
What should I expect during the recovery period after surgery for an impacted canine?
Recovery after surgery for an impacted canine typically involves a few days of rest and limited activity. You may experience some swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding, which can be managed with prescribed medications and cold compresses. Follow your oral surgeon's post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
How can I prevent impacted canines in my children?
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection and prevention of impacted canines in children. Dentists can monitor the development of teeth and recommend timely orthodontic evaluations if necessary. Maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing dental issues promptly can also help reduce the risk of impaction.
Schedule in Mt Laurel, NJ Today!
Union Mill Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center would be happy to discuss if this procedure is right for you. If you would like to ask us any questions or schedule an appointment with us, you can call our office at (856) 437-5225. |
