When a tooth fails to protrude or erupt through the gum line and into the proper position, we refer to it as an impacted tooth. Impacted teeth are most common in third molars, usually called wisdom teeth, but impacted canine teeth are not uncommon. Located next to the incisors, the canines are strong teeth used for tearing and chewing food; Braces Now provides impacted canine treatment to restore function and aesthetics to these teeth.
Typically, canines erupt when a child is about 12 or 13 years old, making them the last teeth to erupt. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, an orthodontist should administer an exam to each child around the age of seven. This examination allows orthodontists to monitor the child’s baby teeth and ensure they have properly erupted while catching any impactions or extra teeth early on.
What Is the Procedure to Fix an Impacted Canine?
If your child develops any impacted canines, a relatively straightforward surgery can aid the tooth’s eruption. First, our orthodontist, Dr. Sol, will cut into the gum surrounding the tooth to expose it. After exposing the impacted canine, depending on the severity of the impaction, Dr. Sol will either leave the tooth alone to let it erupt on its own or utilize an orthodontic bracket to assist the tooth’s eruption.
By receiving the recommended orthodontic examination at an early age, early detection of impacted canines in a child’s mouth is possible. Once detected, professional impacted canine treatment from Braces Now will have your child’s canines in the proper position with a simple surgical procedure.