Impacted Tooth Kirkland, Monroe and Redmond WA
Canine teeth, often referred to as the “cornerstone” of the dental arch, are crucial for proper oral function and aesthetics. Their role in biting and guiding other teeth into alignment is vital. However, these teeth are prone to impaction, which occurs when a tooth cannot erupt through the gum due to obstruction or misalignment. Impacted canines can cause various complications, often requiring removal to protect the patient’s overall dental health.
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What Are Impacted Canine Teeth?
An impacted canine tooth fails to emerge properly within the dental arch, often remaining trapped in the gum tissue or bone. Canines are vital for biting and guiding other teeth into alignment, so when they are impacted, they can disrupt the balance and function of the entire mouth. These teeth are more commonly impacted in the upper jaw than in the lower jaw, and genetic and developmental factors can contribute to the issue.
Causes of Impacted Canines
What causes an impacted canine varies from person to person. However, the most common reasons include insufficient space, preventing the tooth from moving into its proper position, and misaligning adjacent teeth. Genetics can also play a part in how impacted canines develop. If your family has a medical history of impacted teeth and unusually small dental arches, you will be prone to the same problems.
Some individuals do not lose their baby teeth early enough for their canine teeth to erupt properly. If the baby teeth block the space for the permanent teeth, the new teeth may emerge in the roof of the mouth or through the jaw in front of the other teeth. Anatomical abnormalities can also prevent canine teeth from coming in properly.
Potential Problems Caused by Impacted Canine Teeth
Untreated impacted canines can lead to a range of dental issues, including:
- Damage to adjacent teeth
- Misalignment of adjacent teeth
- Infection or Cysts
- Pain and swelling
Why Impacted Canine Teeth Must Be Treated
Because of the vital role that canines play in dental structure and function, impacted canines need timely treatment. Leaving them untreated increases the risk of dental complications, including damage to other teeth, misalignment, and more severe jaw issues. Early intervention, including monitoring by your dentist, can help avoid more extensive procedures later. In many cases, impacted canines must be removed to prevent further complications and alleviate pain.
Removing Impacted Canine Teeth
Removing an impacted canine tooth is a specialized procedure that requires expertise and precision. Dentists usually refer their patients to an oral surgeon for this procedure. At 47 North Oral Surgery, we are adept at removing impacted canine teeth using minimally invasive procedures to reduce recovery times and ensure positive results.
At your initial appointment, we use X-rays and digital images to determine the exact position of the impacted tooth and develop the best removal approach.
On the day of surgery, your oral surgeon will use a local anesthetic to numb the area so you will not feel any pain during surgery. They may also administer sedation to relax you and alleviate your anxiety.
Your surgeon makes a small incision in the gums to access the impacted canine. If needed, some jawbone may be removed to access the tooth. The tooth is gently rocked until it comes loose and is removed. If the tooth is difficult to remove, it may be sectioned (cut into smaller pieces) for easier removal. After removing the tooth, your surgeon will close the incision with sutures and provide aftercare instructions. We may also offer antibiotics and prescription pain relievers if needed.
Aftercare & Recovery
Following canine removal, you will experience some swelling and discomfort. Ice packs will reduce swelling, and medications can control the pain, which will begin to subside after 3-4 days. You should fully recover in one to two weeks, but we advise avoiding strenuous activities (including exercise) for at least two weeks. During this time, a soft diet is recommended.
Follow-up visits with your oral surgeon are crucial to ensure proper healing and recovery. They will monitor for any signs of infection or complications, and any remaining sutures will be removed when the incision has sufficiently healed.
While impacted canines can cause a range of dental complications, timely treatment from an experienced oral surgeon can prevent long-term issues and protect your oral health. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an impacted canine tooth, consult one of our oral surgeons to discuss the best options for care by calling our office!
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Contact one of our offices today!