When Canine Teeth Become Impacted

While wisdom teeth (or third molars) are the most common types of teeth to be extracted, they may not be the only ones that require surgical extraction. For example, our canine teeth, sometimes referred to as eye teeth, may also be subject to impaction for a variety of reasons. Because canines are more critical to your bite’s function than wisdom teeth, assessing your condition and treating it as soon as possible has a greater impact on your long-term oral health. Their importance also means that extracting your canines may only be recommended in severe cases.

What causes canine impaction?

Permanent canine teeth typically erupt by the of 13 years old, and their development can be affected by the development, eruption, and alignment of the teeth surrounding them. If crowding or spacing issues are present, then the teeth surrounding the canine may be forced too close together, causing the canine to become impacted and unable to erupt properly. If addressed early, treatments such as spacers and other orthodontic options may help avoid canine impaction by ensuring teeth have ample space to develop on both dental arches. However, in severe cases, the most effective way to avoid more extensive issues may be to extract the impacted canines.

Is tooth extraction the best option?

Because extracting a canine tooth can impact your overall bite function, we’ll perform a thorough examination and assessment of your oral health before suggesting tooth extraction. For instance, in mild to moderate cases, specialized orthodontic treatment may help correct the spacing and crowding that has caused the impaction, as well as the canines’ positions and alignment. If extraction is the best option, then we’ll discuss your options for replacing the tooth and correcting your bite alignment before designing and performing your treatment.

Learn if tooth extraction is your best option

In severe cases of canine impaction, surgically extracting the tooth may be the best way to restore your oral health. To schedule your consultation, call the Texas Institute of Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery in Midlothian, TX, today at 469-649-8259. We also serve patients who live in Dallas, Mansfield, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Desoto, Red Oak, Waxahachie, Ft. Worth, and all surrounding communities.