Impacted Canines
An impacted canine can leave a noticeable gap in your smile and is one of the most challenging teeth to replace.
Almost any tooth can become stuck or “impacted” as it tries to erupt, but the maxillary canines—often called the “eye teeth”—are the most common. Because these teeth come in later and help form the “corners” of your smile, they often have less space to emerge naturally and may become crowded out.
An impacted canine can leave a noticeable gap in your smile and is one of the most challenging teeth to replace. For this reason, it is usually worth the effort to guide the natural tooth into place whenever possible.
Uncover and Bracket Procedure
Your orthodontist may recommend a surgical consultation to discuss exposing or assisting the eruption of an impacted canine. During this consultation, several factors are evaluated:
- The severity and position of the impaction
- The likelihood of bringing the tooth into alignment
- Any existing damage to nearby teeth
- Whether the treatment plan should include attempting to save the canine or removing it
If treatment is appropriate, Dr. Williams and your orthodontist will work together to create a coordinated plan.
How the Procedure Works
Surgically, the impacted tooth is uncovered by creating a window in the gum over the tooth’s crown and placing an orthodontic bracket to engage the tooth. Your orthodontist will then utilize your braces with gentle orthodontic forces to guide tooth eruption into proper position over several months. This gradual process helps achieve the most stable and natural result
Possible Complications: Ankylosed Tooth
In some cases—despite careful planning and proper treatment—the tooth may fail to erupt because it becomes ankylosed, meaning it fuses to the jawbone. Ankylosed teeth do not respond to orthodontic forces and can interfere with the eruption of other teeth or alter normal jaw development. Although rare and often unpredictable, ankylosis may necessitate extraction of the affected tooth.
What to Expect
During Your Consultation
- Dr. Williams will review your imaging, a 3D cone beam CT to determine the exact location and position of the impacted canine.
- Our team will discuss anesthesia options, typically local anesthesia with IV sedation for comfort.
- All questions about timing, orthodontic coordination, and recovery will be reviewed so you know exactly what to expect.
During the Procedure
- The gum tissue over the impacted tooth is gently lifted to expose the crown.
- An orthodontic bracket or gold chain is bonded to the tooth.
- The area is then repositioned or secured with stitches to keep it comfortable and clean.
- The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity.
After the Procedure
- Mild swelling, soreness, or bleeding can occur for the first 24–48 hours.
- Most patients return to school or work within a day.
- Your orthodontist will activate the bracket or chain at a follow-up visit to begin guiding the tooth into its proper position.
Ongoing Orthodontic Movement
- The eruption process occurs gradually over several months, depending on the tooth’s starting position.
- Regular orthodontic appointments will ensure the tooth is moving correctly and allow adjustments as needed.
- Communication between Dr. Williams and your orthodontist continues throughout the process for the best possible outcome.
Anesthesia Options Available for Surgery
Local Anesthesia
Patients who have undergone fillings or other minor dental procedures may have previous experience with local anesthesia. Local anesthesia is a numbing medication that is injected directly around the area to be treated.
IV Sedation
IV sedation allows patients to enter a deeply relaxed, sleep-like state during a procedure. It is commonly used for more complex surgical treatments or for individuals with significant dental anxiety.
General Anesthesia
Some people are best managed in a hospital or surgery center. This may be due to the complexity of the surgery, health of the patient, or in cases of severe anxiety, emotional immaturity, or developmental delay.
Parent Resources
Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment where your child feels comfortable and cared for from the moment they arrive. These resources are designed to help parents understand what to expect before and during surgery, and how to best prepare children of all ages for a positive experience.
We Are Here to Help You Prepare
At Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery, we are committed to providing the highest level of care and treatment for every patient. See helpful information to guide you before and after your surgery.