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Impacted Canines

Impacted Canines in West Jordan

An impacted canine tooth occurs when it fails to emerge properly from the gum. The maxillary canine, also known as the upper eye tooth, is the second most commonly impacted tooth after the wisdom teeth. Canines are crucial for proper bite alignment and play a key role in guiding other teeth into place.

  • Importance of Canines: Canine teeth are strong with the longest roots of any human teeth. They are typically the last of the front teeth to erupt, usually around age 13, and help close any gaps between the front teeth.
  • Diagnosis and Early Detection: Early identification of impacted canines is essential for effective treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a panorex x-ray and dental exam around age 7 to spot potential eruption issues. This helps in identifying missing adult teeth, extra teeth or growths obstructing eruption, and any crowding.
A light-skinned woman with curly, light brown/auburn hair smiles brightly in this close-up. She wears small hoop earrings and a teal or forest-green top layered over a cream-colored collared shirt. Her teeth are visible, and her eyebrows are well-defined. The background is softly blurred. - Impacted Canines in West Jordan, UT

Treatment Options

  • Orthodontic Evaluation: An orthodontist may use braces to create space and facilitate the eruption of the impacted canine.
  • Oral Surgery: An oral surgeon exposes the impacted tooth by lifting the gum and attaches a bracket with a chain to guide the tooth into its proper position.

Surgical Procedure

The surgery to expose and bracket an impacted canine is typically done with local anesthesia or sedation if needed. The steps include:

  • Exposing the Tooth: The gum is gently lifted to reveal the impacted tooth.
  • Bracketing: A bracket with a gold chain is bonded to the exposed tooth.
  • Post-Surgery Care: Pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter medications. Swelling can be reduced with ice packs, and a soft diet is recommended initially.

Follow-Up
and Care

After surgery, the patient will return to the orthodontist within 1-14 days to begin the process of moving the tooth into place. Regular follow-ups are necessary to ensure proper healing and alignment.

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Complex Cases

If both canines are impacted, surgery may be performed on both sides simultaneously to minimize recovery time. Impacted canines are easier to manage compared to impacted molars, which have multiple roots and are more challenging to reposition.

Conclusion

Early detection and a coordinated approach between orthodontists and oral surgeons can effectively address impacted canines, improving outcomes and minimizing the need for more invasive procedures. For further questions, contact Dr. Urban at Utah Facial Surgical Arts: 801-282-5363.

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