Impacted Canines

An impacted tooth is one that is “stuck” and cannot come in properly. This often happens with wisdom teeth, but it can also occur with the upper canine (eyetooth), which plays a key role in your bite. Canines have long roots and are crucial for guiding your teeth into place when you bite.

Normally, the upper canines come in around age 13. If they become impacted, special techniques can help move them into place. About 60% of impacted canines are found on the roof of the mouth, while the rest may be stuck in the middle or toward the front of the dental arch.

Early Detection is Key

It’s important to detect impacted canines early, ideally around age 7. A dentist or orthodontist can check if there are extra teeth, crowding, or growths that might be preventing the canine from erupting. If caught early, braces and possibly a minor surgical procedure can help guide the tooth into position. However, if the tooth is not addressed by age 13-14, it may not erupt on its own, and in older patients (over 40), the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with an implant or bridge.

What Happens if the Canine Won’t Erupt?

If a canine doesn’t erupt on its own, orthodontists and oral surgeons work together to bring it into place. The orthodontist will use braces to create space, and the oral surgeon will expose the tooth in a simple office procedure. A small bracket with a chain is attached to the tooth, and over time, gentle pressure is applied to move the tooth into its correct position. This process can take up to a year.

The surgery is straightforward and typically involves local anesthesia or light sedation. Afterward, there may be some swelling or discomfort, but it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. You’ll also need to follow up with your orthodontist to begin moving the tooth into place. Most patients heal quickly and return to their normal routines within a few days.

If you have questions, contact Randolph Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, PA at Randolph Office: Phone Number 973-328-1555 if you have any questions. We’re here to help!