Canines are the sharpest teeth in the mouth and since they are primarily used for tearing chewy and tough foods, it is very important that canine teeth be aligned properly. Sometimes, during tooth transition, canines become impacted (stuck in the gums). Since these teeth are essential to smooth and comfortable oral function, impacted canines may require treatment from an oral surgeon or orthodontist. If canines are impacted, the most common forms of treatment include oral surgery and the use of orthodontic appliances to guide canines to their proper positions.
How Oral Problems Arise During Tooth Transition
Tooth transition occurs over a span of a few years. During this period, baby teeth are replaced by adult teeth. Sometimes, adult teeth begin to emerge while corresponding baby teeth have not yet fallen out. When adult teeth erupt before baby teeth are lost, complications arise. If there is not enough room in the mouth for teeth to emerge, they will not erupt through the gums properly. This can lead to the development of malocclusions, misaligned teeth, and abscesses.
Treating Impacted Canines
In order to preserve oral health and prevent orthodontic complications, baby teeth may need to be extracted. Extracting baby teeth creates extra room for adult teeth to come in through the gums. When oral surgeons perform a tooth extraction, the entire tooth including its roots, is gently removed. Since it is very important that canines are properly aligned, a tooth extraction can greatly facilitate the process of proper tooth eruption. When it comes to performing extractions, our team takes great care to ensure that our patients enjoy comfortable and high-quality treatment.
Sometimes patients need orthodontic treatment after an extraction. Once room is created by removing an unnecessary tooth, orthodontic appliances can be attached to neighboring teeth to help guide an emerging tooth to its rightful place. When orthodontic care is necessary, our oral surgeon will work with general dentists and orthodontists to devise a custom treatment plan to release your impacted canines.
To schedule a consultation with our team, call Oral Surgery Associates of North Texas at your convenience.
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