A permanent canine that has not appeared can leave a retained baby tooth, a gap or uncertainty about future orthodontic treatment. Canines are the pointed teeth near the corners of the smile. An impacted canine has not erupted into its expected position and may remain within the gum or bone. Assessment should establish where it is and whether it can be brought into the dental arch.
Why check an unerupted canine?
An impacted canine may affect neighbouring teeth, including their roots, even when it is not painful. The orthodontic assessment considers its position, available space and the condition of adjacent teeth. Possible approaches include monitoring, selected early treatment, surgical exposure with orthodontic alignment, or removal. The choice depends on the individual situation. British Orthodontic Society: Impacted canines
What does surgical exposure involve?
Exposure gives access to the buried tooth. The surgeon may uncover it and attach a small bracket or chain that the orthodontist uses to guide movement. Depending on the technique, the gum may be repositioned over the tooth or an opening maintained. This is part of a coordinated orthodontic plan, not an operation that instantly puts the canine into place. Gloucestershire Hospitals: Canine exposure
Ask who will arrange the first orthodontic review after surgery and what to do if an attachment loosens. Follow the specific cleaning and food instructions, and do not pull or adjust a chain yourself. Surgical healing and subsequent tooth movement are separate stages.
When might extraction be the better option?
Removal may be considered when alignment is not feasible or appropriate, or when retaining the tooth creates problems. If extraction is advised, the discussion should include the future space: whether orthodontics can close it, whether a baby tooth can remain useful, or whether replacement will be needed. Extraction of a retained baby canine is a different decision from removing the impacted permanent tooth. British Orthodontic Society: Treatment options
What should be discussed before surgery?
Ask about discomfort, bleeding, infection, effects on nearby teeth and the possibility that further treatment may be needed. Canine exposure does not guarantee that orthodontic movement will succeed. The surgical setting and anaesthesia are chosen according to the procedure and patient. University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire: Surgical exposure
For an assessment in Andheri West, bring available X-rays, your orthodontist's referral and details of any treatment already started. Request one coordinated plan covering surgery, braces, review appointments and alternatives if the tooth cannot be aligned.
Frequently asked questions
Is an impacted canine treated like a wisdom tooth? Not automatically. Preserving and aligning a canine may be an important treatment goal.
Does every impacted canine need extraction? No. Exposure and alignment or monitoring may be appropriate alternatives.
Can exposure work without an orthodontic plan? The team should establish how the tooth will be managed afterwards before operating.
Contact The Curve Dental Solutions to enquire about an impacted canine assessment and coordination between the orthodontist and oral surgeon.
Related reading: Orthodontic treatment · Minor oral surgical procedures