Eagan Invisalign Teen Orthodontist Discusses Impacted Canines

EAGAN AND MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - The term "impacted canine" has nothing to do with a dog.  
An impacted canine is a tooth that isn’t able to move and erupt into its proper position. Dr. Jennifer Eisenhuth, an Eagan Invisalign Teen and kids orthodontics professional, often services patients with impacted canines.
According to the American Dental Association, an impacted canine can be caused by crowded teeth. No room is available for the tooth to erupt and this can prevent the teeth from functioning properly. Wisdom teeth are the most commonly impacted. 
Impacted canines can also be caused by:

• Additional teeth that are in the natural eruption path of the canine tooth
• Abnormal oral growths
• The jawbone is obstructing the eruption

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends early detection. Children should receive an orthodontic evaluation by his or her 7th birthday. Identifying and treating these types of issues early helps orthodontists such as Eisenhuth select the best treatment option. Treatment at this stage can prevent the need for more invasive treatment in the future, Eisenhuth says.
"In many cases, we can use a child's growth to our benefit and correct the impaction naturally," says Eisenhuth, who offers dental braces for children and adults.
The uncovering procedure can be more complicated if an impacted tooth goes without being addressed for too long. Waiting too long can result in surgery to correct the problem. 
To craft an appropriate treatment plan, oral surgeons will work in collaboration with the orthodontist.  Minneapolis and Eagan pediatric orthodontic expert Eisenhuth works with oral surgeons to prepare the gum around the impacted area so space can be created for the tooth to erupt.  This typically involves placing braces on the upper teeth so a space can be created for the impacted canine to erupt. Once the space opens, the oral surgeon performs a procedure to lift the gum around the impacted tooth and place a temporary anchorage device. A small chain is attached to the tooth, which pulls the canine into its proper place. If the tooth will not cooperate even with a guided path, it may require surgical extraction, followed by placement of a dental implant. It is important to note that this tends to happen only in extreme cases or in cases where the patient prolonged corrective treatment, Eisenhuth says.  
"A missing or impacted canine can affect your smile's function and overall appearance," she says. "Address the issue early for an increased chance of a favorable diagnosis."