We Can Help With Impacted Canines
At NobleCare Orthodontics, we often see impacted canine teeth, especially in kids and teens. An impacted tooth does not fully break through the gums, sometimes causing discomfort and other oral health concerns.
What You Need to Know & How We Can Help
While most people around Encino think of wisdom teeth when it comes to impaction, canines—those important pointy teeth next to your front teeth—can be impacted, too.
Here, we’ll walk you through why impacted canines happen, how we detect them, and the treatments that can help.
Why Canines Matter
Canines, also known as cuspids, are the pointed teeth at the corners of your smile. They help with gripping and tearing food, and they’re some of the strongest teeth we have because of their long roots.
Canines are usually the last permanent teeth to come in, around age 12 or 13, so they can sometimes face obstacles along the way.
When to Start Watching for Canine Issues
Dr. Shayesteh and the American Association of Orthodontists recommend a child’s first orthodontic exam around age seven. This allows us to keep an eye on how all their teeth, including canines, are coming in.
By catching any issues early, we can prevent bigger problems down the road. At NobleCare Orthodontics, early detection of potential impactions is a top priority.
Why Do Canines Get Impacted?
Several factors can cause a canine tooth to become impacted. These include:
- Genetics: Some people are just more prone to it.
- Crowding: Not enough space in the dental arch can block the tooth.
- Other Blockers: Extra teeth, unusual growths, or baby teeth that stick around too long can also be in the way.
Signs of Impacted Canines
An impacted canine doesn’t always cause pain, but there are a few signs to look for:
- Delayed Eruption: The tooth doesn’t come in on time.
- Gaps: Spaces where canines should be.
- Gum Swelling or Tenderness: These could indicate an impacted tooth.
Regular dental visits and X-rays help dentists catch impacted canines early. At NobleCare Orthodontics, Dr. Shayesteh uses advanced imaging to pinpoint the problem and plan the proper treatment for you.
How We Treat Impacted Canines
Treating impacted canines usually involves both surgical and orthodontic steps:
- Exposure: A small surgical procedure to make an incision and expose the hidden tooth.
- Natural Eruption: Sometimes, once the tooth is exposed, it can come down on its own without extra help.
- Guided Eruption: In most cases, Dr. Shayesteh attaches a small bracket to the tooth and gently guide it into place with braces or other orthodontic devices. This method is highly effective for positioning the tooth in the right spot.
Why Orthodontics Is Key
Orthodontics are essential for resolving impacted canines. At NobleCare Orthodontics, Dr. Shayesteh creates a customized treatment plan for each patient.
Our goal is to make sure the canine fits naturally into the dental arch, resulting in a functional bite and a great-looking smile.
Prevention & Care After Treatment
Preventing impacted canines starts with regular dental check-ups to spot early signs of crowding. After treatment, following good oral hygiene and regular follow-up visits are essential to ensure everything is healing correctly.
Here to Help
Impacted canines are common, but with the right approach, Dr. Shayesteh can treat them effectively. Early orthodontic exams, combined with a personalized treatment plan, ensure the best outcome.
At NobleCare Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to helping every child we treat to enjoy a healthy, confident smile. If your child might have an impacted canine, or if it’s time for their first orthodontic exam, reach out to us at NobleCare Orthodontics.
From your first consultation to treatment completion, we’ll be there every step of the way. Schedule a free consultation today, and let’s take the first step towards a lifetime of healthy smiles at our office in Encino.