Impacted Canines Treatment in Bloomington, IN
What Are Impacted Canines?
Canines are the pointed teeth next to your front teeth (incisors). They are sometimes called your “eye teeth.” A canine is impacted when the permanent tooth does not come in the way it should. Instead, it stays stuck beneath the gums or bone.
After wisdom teeth, canines are the second most commonly impacted teeth. Unlike wisdom teeth, which are often removed, canines are important teeth that we work to save.
Why Canines Matter to Your Bite and Smile
Canines do more than fill space in your smile. They help guide your bite when your jaws come together. They also support the stability of your front teeth and help maintain the shape of your face.
Because canines play such an important role, our goal is to preserve them. Keeping your natural canine supports long-term oral health and a balanced smile.
Signs You May Have an Impacted Canine
Many people with an impacted canine notice no symptoms at all. Often, the problem is found during a routine dental checkup. Here are some signs to watch for:
- A baby canine that stays in place past age 12 or 13
- An unexplained gap between the front teeth
- A missing canine tooth that shows up on an X-ray
If you notice any of these signs, it is a good idea to schedule an evaluation with our oral surgeons.
How We Diagnose Impacted Canines
We use imaging to find out exactly where the tooth is. Digital X-rays show the position of the tooth. For a closer look, we use 3D CBCT scans, which we offer on-site. These scans give us detailed images of the tooth’s location, the surrounding bone, and how the tooth relates to nearby teeth and nerves.
Early diagnosis matters. When we find an impacted canine by age 10, we usually have the most treatment options available.
Treatment Options for Impacted Canines
Every patient is different, so we create a plan that fits your needs. Here are the main options.
- Non-surgical care. When an impacted canine is caught early, space management, braces, or palatal expanders can help guide the tooth into place. In some cases, this allows the tooth to come in on its own.
- Exposure and bonding. This is the most common treatment for impacted canines. During this procedure, we uncover the tooth and attach a small orthodontic bracket to it. Your orthodontist then uses gentle force to guide the tooth into its proper position.
- Extraction. Removing the tooth is rare. We only consider it if the canine is severely impacted or is causing damage to the teeth next to it.
What to Expect During Recovery
After a surgical exposure, mild swelling and discomfort are normal. These usually get better within about two weeks.
Over the next several months, gentle orthodontic force moves the tooth into its final position. You will have regular follow-up appointments so we can check your progress and make sure the tooth is lining up correctly.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Children and teens between ages 10 and 14 often benefit from simpler, less invasive treatment. In some cases, early care can allow the tooth to come in naturally without surgery.
Waiting can make treatment harder. Delays raise the risk of complications like cysts, damage to the roots of nearby teeth, and more involved treatment later on. This is why we encourage early evaluation.
Schedule Your Consultation
Schedule your consultation with Oral Surgery of Bloomington to learn which treatment option is right for you. Early evaluation can save time and prevent complications.
Call us or contact us online to schedule an appointment today.
Bloomington Oral Surgery
1116 S College Mall Rd Bloomington, IN 47401
