Impacted Canines
Upper canine teeth that fail to erupt into their proper position.
Impacted canines are the second most commonly impacted teeth after wisdom teeth, affecting 1-3% of the population. Upper (maxillary) canines are impacted 10 times more often than lower canines. They may be impacted palatally (toward the roof of the mouth, 60%) or buccally (toward the cheek, 40%). Early detection through clinical examination and X-rays at age 10-13 is crucial. Treatment options include: interceptive extraction of the primary canine (may allow self-correction if detected early), surgical exposure with orthodontic traction (most common treatment — surgeon uncovers the tooth and attaches a bracket, then orthodontist gradually moves it into position), autotransplantation, or extraction if the tooth is in an unfavorable position. Treatment typically takes 18-24 months of orthodontic management.