Canine teeth, also known as cuspids or eye teeth, play a crucial role in your smile. They help guide your bite, provide facial symmetry, and support the alignment of your other teeth. However, sometimes a canine tooth fails to erupt properly, getting stuck beneath the gums—this is known as an impacted canine.
Impacted canines are more common in the upper jaw and, if left untreated, can lead to pain, misalignment, and even damage to surrounding teeth. But how do you know if you have one? Let’s go over the key signs and what you can do about it.
Signs You May Have an Impacted Canine
A Baby Tooth That Won’t Fall Out
One of the earliest signs of an impacted canine is a persistent baby tooth, especially in teenagers or young adults. If a permanent canine fails to erupt, the baby tooth may stay in place much longer than expected.
When to See an Orthodontist: If your child still has a baby canine past age 13, it’s time for an evaluation.
A Noticeable Gap in Your Smile
If a canine tooth is missing, it may be impacted beneath the gumline. This can create an unusual gap in your upper dental arch, affecting the overall alignment of your teeth.
When to See an Orthodontist: If you notice asymmetry in your smile or a gap where a canine should be, an X-ray can determine if an impacted tooth is the cause.
A Bump on the Gumline
Sometimes, an impacted canine can partially erupt or create a hard lump on the gums. This happens when the tooth is stuck but trying to break through the surface.
When to See an Orthodontist: If you feel pressure, swelling, or an unusual bulge on your gums, it could be an impacted tooth trying to push through.
Crowded or Misaligned Teeth
Impacted canines often contribute to dental crowding because they push against surrounding teeth. This can cause:
Crooked front teeth
Overlapping incisors
An improper bite
When to See an Orthodontist: If your teeth are shifting or becoming crowded, an orthodontic evaluation can determine whether an impacted canine is the cause.
Pain, Swelling, or Discomfort
An untreated impacted canine can sometimes cause pain, pressure, or inflammation in the gums. In more severe cases, it may even lead to cysts or infection beneath the surface.
When to See an Orthodontist: If you experience gum pain, swelling, or an unexplained ache near where a canine tooth should be, seek professional evaluation.
How Orthodontists Treat Impacted Canines
The good news? Impacted canines are highly treatable with the right orthodontic care. Here are the most common treatment options:
Braces & Space Maintainers
If caught early, typically between ages 11–14, orthodontists can create space for an impacted canine to erupt naturally. Braces or expanders can guide the tooth into place before it fully develops.
Surgical Exposure & Orthodontic Traction
In some cases, oral surgery may be needed to expose the impacted tooth. A small bracket is then attached, and orthodontic traction (braces) gently pulls the tooth into alignment over time.
Extraction (Rare Cases)
If the canine is severely impacted and poses a risk to other teeth, extraction may be recommended. However, orthodontic treatment can often save and reposition the tooth without removal.
Why Early Treatment Matters
The sooner an impacted canine is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. Early orthodontic intervention can:
Prevent the need for surgery
Reduce treatment time with braces
Minimize risks of damage to surrounding teeth
At Bright Braces in Katy, TX, Dr. Bright specializes in diagnosing and treating impacted canines with advanced orthodontic techniques.
Concerned About an Impacted Canine? Schedule a Consultation!
If you or your child is showing signs of an impacted canine, don’t wait—early treatment can make a big difference. Schedule a consultation with Bright Braces today and let us help you achieve a healthy, confident smile!
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