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Canine teeth (the "eye teeth") are essential for proper bite function and smile aesthetics. When these teeth become impacted and fail to erupt naturally, Dr. Barkin works with your orthodontist to expose and guide them into their proper position.
Impacted Canine Illustration
Dental Diagram Coming Soon
Canines are the last of the front teeth to erupt, typically appearing between ages 11-13. Sometimes these important teeth become "impacted," meaning they're stuck in the jawbone or gum tissue and can't emerge on their own.
Common causes of impacted canines include:
Dr. Barkin will recommend the best approach based on the tooth's position and your specific situation.
The most common treatment. Dr. Barkin surgically exposes the impacted canine and bonds an orthodontic bracket, allowing your orthodontist to gradually guide the tooth into position.
When the canine cannot be saved or positioned, extraction may be recommended. This is typically followed by implant placement or orthodontic space closure.
In select cases, the impacted canine can be surgically repositioned directly into the correct location in the dental arch.
Successful treatment requires coordination between Dr. Barkin and your orthodontist.
Work begins with your orthodontist to create space in the arch and plan the optimal approach for the impacted canine.
Advanced imaging precisely locates the impacted tooth and helps determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
Dr. Barkin gently exposes the crown of the impacted tooth and attaches an orthodontic bracket with a small chain.
Your orthodontist gradually applies force to guide the canine into its proper position over several months.
Treatment is most successful when performed between ages 11-14, when the canine root is still developing. However, adults can also be successfully treated.
The surgical procedure takes about an hour, but the complete orthodontic treatment to move the tooth into position typically takes 12-24 months.
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so you won't feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Untreated impacted canines can cause damage to adjacent teeth roots, cyst formation, infection, and misalignment of other teeth.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Barkin to discuss the best treatment approach for your situation.