Surgery for Impacted Canines: Do You Need It?

When a canine remains trapped beneath the gums, it can lead to pain, crowding, and misalignment, often requiring orthodontic or surgical treatment.

Canine teeth, also known as cuspids, play an essential role in your bite and overall dental health. They help guide your teeth into proper alignment, assist with chewing, and contribute to the natural symmetry of your smile.

However, sometimes a canine tooth fails to erupt properly and remains trapped beneath the gums. This condition is known as an impacted canine. Impacted canines are common in the upper jaw and can lead to pain, misalignment, and even damage to surrounding teeth if left untreated.

In some cases, orthodontic treatment alone can guide an impacted tooth into place. But when the tooth is deeply trapped, surgical intervention may be necessary.

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Do You Need Surgery for an Impacted Canine?

Not all impacted canines require surgery. The need for a surgical procedure depends on:

• The position of the impacted tooth

• The age of the patient

• The severity of the impaction

• Whether the tooth is affecting surrounding teeth

A consultation with an orthodontist can determine the best approach. X-rays or 3D imaging help assess the location of the impacted canine and whether it can be guided into place with braces or if surgery is needed.

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A minor surgical procedure is often needed to expose an impacted canine, allowing it to be guided into place with orthodontic treatment.

Types of Surgery for Impacted Canines

Surgical Exposure and Orthodontic Traction

If the impacted canine is positioned favorably, a minor surgical procedure can expose the tooth so that braces can guide it into alignment. This process involves:

• Making a small incision in the gums to access the impacted tooth

• Attaching a small bracket or chain to the tooth

• Connecting the chain to braces to gently pull the tooth into place over time

This is the most common surgical approach and is often performed under local anesthesia.

Tooth Extraction

In cases where the impacted canine is severely misaligned or poses a risk to nearby teeth, extraction may be necessary. This is typically a last resort when orthodontic traction is not an option. If a canine is removed, a dental implant or bridge may be used to maintain function and appearance.

Soft Tissue or Bone Removal

In some cases, excess gum tissue or bone may be blocking the canine from erupting. A minor surgical procedure can remove the obstruction, allowing the tooth to emerge naturally or with orthodontic assistance.

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Recovery and Aftercare

After surgery, most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs. Healing time varies, but most patients recover within a few days. Proper oral hygiene and follow-up visits with the orthodontist are important for a smooth recovery.

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When to See an Orthodontist

Early detection of an impacted canine increases the chances of successful treatment without extraction. If you or your child has a missing canine, prolonged baby teeth retention, or noticeable dental crowding, an orthodontic evaluation is recommended.

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Impacted canine surgery is a routine procedure performed by oral surgeons to help teeth erupt properly and prevent future dental complications.

Schedule a Consultation for Impacted Canine Treatment

If you have an impacted canine and are unsure whether surgery is necessary, schedule a consultation with Bright Braces. A customized treatment plan can help bring the tooth into alignment and restore a healthy smile.