Each tooth in your mouth has a particular function. Typically, the human mouth has four canine teeth on either side of the upper and lower incisors and has the longest tooth root of any tooth. Strong canines help people rip and tear up food. However, it’s possible for a canine tooth can get “stuck” underneath the gums just like another tooth. Although rare, ignoring an impacted canine tooth can lead to significant oral health issues and damage otherwise healthy teeth, gums, and jawbone.
Arrange a consultation at Texas Oral Surgery Specialists if you suspect that you have an impacted canine tooth. Dr. Chris L. Tye is regarded by his peers as one of the best oral surgeons in the North Texas area. He surgically removes impacted teeth to preserve oral health and prevent potential problems.
Unfortunately, not addressing an impacted canine can result in the following adverse effects:
1. Unappealing Aesthetics
A less harsh outcome of an impacted tooth is that it impacts how your smile looks. Specifically, a canine tooth that fails to erupt leaves the intended area with an awkward tinier primary tooth or a space between the present permanent teeth.
Although, these aesthetic issues signify a much bigger problem in many cases. An impacted canine tooth can fly under the radar without further professional evaluation.
2. Damage to Adjacent Teeth and Misalignment
Tooth root resorption is a natural bodily process, and this happens when the body gradually breaks down cells and absorbs tissue surrounding the tooth. Normally, tooth root resorption enables children’s baby tooth roots to dissolve to make room for permanent adult teeth.
How a canine tooth becomes impacted and resorbed can play a role in additional dental issues, including damaging neighboring teeth due to misposition, including the first premolars, upper lateral incisors, and upper central incisors.
Misalignment can trigger ripple effects on other permanent teeth and require future orthodontic treatment.
3. Tooth Decay and Periodontal Disease
The mouth is a wet, dark place—and oral bacteria thrive here. If an impacted canine tooth leaves a space in the mouth, the space becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. If bacterial overgrowth happens, cavities and periodontal disease become major oral health concerns.
4. Premature Wear and Tear
When a canine tooth refuses to erupt normally, the entire mouth and its functionality suffer. The canine teeth play an active role in chewing. When the canines are impacted, the remaining teeth undergo extra pressure and influence the early erosion of other permanent teeth.
5. Abnormal Growth
A dentigerous cyst forms when fluid accumulates over the top of an impacted tooth. Although the origin of what causes the fluid to buildup is medically unknown, impacted teeth have an increased risk of developing a dentigerous cyst.
Cyst formation around the crown of the impacted canine tooth can push neighboring teeth out of alignment. In some cases, dentigerous cysts can cause jawbone resorption, leaving the bone brittle and potentially even producing pathological fractures.
Do you have an impacted canine tooth? Call Our Colleyville Office
Early recognition of an impacted canine tooth is the key to successful treatment. So, speak with our team to request a consultation as your first step to successful treatment. Don’t wait for a second longer! Call (817) 552-3223 or message us online today.
