Every smile tells a story, but what happens when a key player—the canine tooth—fails to take its proper place? Impacted canines are a common yet often overlooked dental issue that can lead to misalignment, discomfort, and even long-term oral health complications.

Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s developing teeth or an adult experiencing unexplained dental shifts, understanding what impacted canines are, why they occur, and how they can be treated is crucial for maintaining a healthy, functional smile.

At Natural Teeth Implant Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating impacted canines with advanced techniques designed to guide these stubborn teeth into their correct positions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about impacted canines and orthodontic extractions, including treatment benefits, procedures, and what to expect during recovery.

What Are Impacted Canines and Why Do They Occur?

Impacted canines are teeth that fail to erupt properly, remaining trapped beneath the gum line or within the jawbone. These teeth, also known as “eye teeth” due to their position under the eyes, play a vital role in dental function and aesthetics. When they don’t emerge correctly, they can cause:

• Misalignment of surrounding teeth

• Increased risk of cysts or infections

• Difficulty chewing or speaking

• Aesthetic concerns affecting smile symmetry

Several factors contribute to impacted canines, including genetics, overcrowding, or abnormal tooth development. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent complications.

How Do You Know If You Have an Impacted Canine?

Not all impacted canines cause immediate pain, but common signs include:

• A missing or delayed adult canine tooth

• Crowding or shifting of nearby teeth

• Swelling or tenderness in the gums

• Difficulty biting or chewing

A 3D CBCT scan is often used to diagnose the exact position of the impacted tooth and determine the best treatment approach.

What Are the Benefits of Treating Impacted Canines?

Addressing impacted canines offers both functional and aesthetic advantages:

• Restores proper bite alignment – Prevents uneven wear on teeth.

• Enhances facial symmetry – Corrects smile aesthetics.

• Prevents future dental issues – Reduces risks of cysts, infections, and crowding.

• Improves oral function – Ensures comfortable chewing and speaking.

Early intervention, especially in younger patients, often leads to better outcomes.

What Is the Treatment Process for Impacted Canines?

At Natural Teeth Implant Center, our treatment process is customized for each patient:

1. Consultation & Evaluation – Advanced imaging locates the impacted tooth.

2. Customized Treatment Plan – May include surgical exposure, braces, or aligners.

3. Surgical Exposure (If Needed) – A minor procedure to uncover the tooth.

4. Orthodontic Guidance – Braces or appliances guide the tooth into place.

5. Follow-Up Care – Ensures long-term stability and alignment.

Can Impacted Canines Be Treated in Adults?

Yes! While early treatment is ideal, adults can still benefit from impacted canine correction. Advanced orthodontic techniques and surgical methods make it possible to reposition these teeth effectively, improving both function and appearance.

What Happens If Impacted Canines Are Left Untreated?

Ignoring impacted canines can lead to:

• Severe crowding or misalignment

• Root damage to adjacent teeth

• Increased risk of cysts or tumors

• Chronic pain or discomfort

Early intervention minimizes these risks and preserves oral health.

Are Orthodontic Extractions Always Necessary for Impacted Canines?

Not always. While some cases require extractions to create space, others may only need surgical exposure and guided eruption. Your orthodontist will determine the best approach based on your unique situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Impacted Canines

1. How long does impacted canine treatment take?

   • Treatment duration varies but typically ranges from 6 months to 2 years, depending on complexity.

2. Is the procedure painful?

   • Local anesthesia ensures comfort during surgery, and post-op discomfort is manageable with medication.

3. Can impacted canines correct themselves?

   • Rarely. Most cases require professional intervention.

4. What age is best for treatment?

   • Early teens (ages 11-14) is ideal, but adults can still undergo treatment.

5. Will I need braces?

   • Most cases require orthodontic guidance to align the tooth properly.

6. Can an impacted canine cause headaches?

   • Yes, misalignment can contribute to jaw tension and headaches.

7. How is an impacted canine diagnosed?

   • Through clinical exams and 3D imaging (CBCT scan).

8. What’s the success rate of treatment?

   • High, especially with early intervention and expert care.

9. Are there alternatives to surgery?

   • In mild cases, orthodontic methods alone may work, but surgery is often needed.

10. Does insurance cover impacted canine treatment?

    • Many plans cover part of the cost, but coverage varies.

11. Can impacted canines affect speech?

    • Yes, if they disrupt tooth alignment.

12. What’s the recovery time after surgery?

    • Most patients recover within a few days to a week.

13. Can wisdom teeth cause impacted canines?

    • Rarely, but overcrowding can contribute.

14. Do impacted canines cause bad breath?

    • If infection is present, it may contribute to halitosis.

15. How do I care for my teeth post-treatment?

    • Follow oral hygiene instructions and attend follow-up visits.

16. Can impacted canines return after treatment?

    • No, once properly aligned, they remain in place.

17. What foods should I avoid after surgery?

    • Stick to soft foods and avoid hard or chewy items initially.

18. Is treatment different for upper vs. lower canines?

    • Upper canines are more commonly impacted, but treatment principles are similar.

19. Can Invisalign treat impacted canines?

    • In some cases, but traditional braces are often more effective.

20. Will my face shape change after treatment?

    • Proper alignment can enhance facial symmetry.

21. How much does impacted canine treatment cost?

    • Costs vary based on complexity; consult your provider.

22. Can poor oral hygiene cause impacted canines?

    • No, but it can complicate treatment.

23. What’s the difference between impacted and ectopic canines?

    • Ectopic canines erupt in the wrong place, while impacted ones don’t erupt at all.

24. Can braces alone fix an impacted canine?

    • Usually, surgical exposure is needed first.

25. How often are follow-up visits required?

    • Typically every 4-8 weeks during treatment.

26. Can impacted canines cause TMJ disorders?

    • Misalignment may contribute to jaw joint issues.

27. What’s the best toothpaste for post-treatment care?

    • A fluoride toothpaste recommended by your dentist.

28. Can smoking affect impacted canine treatment?

    • Yes, smoking slows healing and increases infection risk.

29. Are there non-surgical ways to encourage eruption?

    • In rare cases, but most require intervention.

30. How do I find a specialist for impacted canines?

    • Look for an orthodontist or oral surgeon with experience in this area.

Final Thoughts:
Why Treating Impacted Canines Matters

Ignoring an impacted canine can lead to long-term dental complications, but with modern orthodontic and surgical techniques, correction is highly effective. Whether you’re seeking treatment for yourself or a loved one, addressing this issue early ensures a healthier, more confident smile.

At Natural Teeth Implant Center, we combine expertise with cutting-edge technology to provide personalized care. Don’t let an impacted canine disrupt your oral health—schedule a consultation today!