A beautiful smile can be life-changing. It can enhance your confidence, boost your overall health, and augment your appearance. However, certain dental conditions (like an impacted canine tooth) can hinder that dazzling smile. Luckily, oral surgery can help correct dental issues for a healthier, more functional smile.
At Texas Oral Surgery Specialists in Colleyville, TX, we can help you keep your smile as healthy as it is beautiful. Schedule an appointment with our team today by calling our front desk at (817) 552-3223.
An impacted canine tooth occurs when the permanent canine fails to emerge properly into its designated position in the dental arch. In this blog post, we explore how to recognize the signs of an impacted canine tooth and discuss potential treatment options.
Identifying an Impacted Canine Tooth
There are several ways to determine if you have an impacted canine tooth, including:
Delayed Eruption
The most common indicator of an impacted canine tooth is a delayed eruption. Normally, permanent canines should erupt between the ages of 11 and 12. If the eruption does not occur within this timeframe, it may indicate an impacted tooth.
Crowding or Misalignment
Impacted canines can exert pressure on the adjacent teeth, leading to crowding or misalignment. If you notice overcrowding or a notable shift in your teeth’s alignment, it is time to consult a dental professional for an evaluation.
Pain or Discomfort
If you experience pain especially while biting or chewing, then it may be a sign of an impacted canine tooth. Contact a dental professional if oral pain lasts longer than three days.
Swelling and Gum Sensitivity
Another sign of an impacted canine is swelling or gum sensitivity in the affected area. The impacted tooth can cause inflammation and lead to tenderness or redness in the gums.
Visible Impaction
In some cases, you might be able to visually identify the impacted canine. You may see a red bump, bleeding, or the partial eruption of the tooth above its intended position.
Treatment Options for an Impacted Canine Tooth
Luckily, there are plenty of options for treating an impacted canine tooth, including:
Observation
In certain cases, if the impacted canine is not causing any significant issues, a dental professional may opt for a wait-and-see approach. Regular monitoring and periodic X-rays can assess the tooth’s progress and determine if intervention is necessary.
Orthodontic Treatment
Patients can pursue orthodontic solutions to try aligning impacted canines properly. Braces and clear aligners are ideal to create space and guide the impacted tooth into its correct position.
Exposure and Bonding
In cases where the impacted canine is partially erupted or covered by gum tissue, a surgical procedure called exposure and bonding may be necessary. This procedure involves lifting the gum tissue to expose the impacted tooth. Once exposed, a specialist can attach an orthodontic bracket to guide the tooth into the correct position.
Extraction and Replacement
If the impaction is causing severe crowding, pain, or other dental complications, extraction may be necessary. Your dental professional may also recommend a replacement option (such as a dental implant or a bridge) to restore the function and aesthetics of the affected area.
Have an impacted canine tooth? We can help!
Recognizing the signs of an impacted canine tooth is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. If you suspect that you have an impacted canine, it is important to consult a dental professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Contact Dr. Chris Tye at Texas Oral Surgery Specialists in Colleyville, TX, online here or at (817) 552-3223 for expedient care.
