When parents hear that their child needs braces, they often expect a straightforward treatment process. However, an impacted canine tooth can create complications that may delay orthodontic treatment if it is not identified early.
At TS Orthodontics, we help families across Asheville, North Asheville, Rutherfordton, and Marion understand how impacted canine teeth affect oral development and what treatment options are available. Our team provides early orthodontic care for kids and has in house oral surgeon to help manage impacted teeth and support healthy smiles.
What Is an Impacted Canine?
A canine tooth becomes impacted when it does not erupt properly through the gums. Instead of moving into the correct position, the tooth may remain trapped beneath the gum tissue or become stuck against nearby teeth.
Canine teeth are extremely important because they:
- Help guide the bite into proper alignment
- Support facial structure
- Assist with chewing and speaking
- Create balance in the smile
Since canine teeth play such a major role in dental development, an impacted canine can interfere with orthodontic treatment and overall oral health.
Why Are Canine Teeth Commonly Impacted?
Upper canine teeth are among the most commonly impacted teeth after wisdom teeth. Several factors can contribute to this issue, including:
- Lack of space in the mouth
- Crowding of nearby teeth
- Baby teeth that do not fall out on time
- Genetics and family history
- Abnormal tooth positioning
Many children do not realize they have an impacted canine because it may not cause pain initially. This is why early orthodontic evaluations are so important.
Signs Your Child May Have an Impacted Canine
Parents may notice a few warning signs that indicate a canine tooth is not erupting properly.
Common signs include:
- A permanent canine tooth that has not appeared by age 13
- Lingering baby teeth
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Gaps between teeth
- Teeth shifting unexpectedly
- Crowding in the upper jaw
In many cases, impacted canines are discovered during routine orthodontic exams and digital imaging.
Can an Impacted Canine Delay Braces?
Yes. An impacted canine can significantly affect the timing and success of braces treatment.
Before braces can properly align the teeth, the orthodontist must determine whether the impacted tooth can erupt naturally or if additional treatment is needed. If left untreated, impacted canines may:
- Damage nearby teeth
- Cause root resorption
- Lead to cyst formation
- Increase crowding
- Extend overall orthodontic treatment time
Addressing the issue early often helps prevent more complex orthodontic problems later.
The Importance of Early Orthodontic Care
At TS Orthodontics, we recommend early orthodontic evaluations for children around age 7. Early exams allow our team to monitor jaw growth, tooth eruption patterns, and spacing concerns before major complications develop.
Early care for kids can help:
- Detect impacted canine teeth sooner
- Create space for erupting teeth
- Reduce the need for extensive treatment later
- Improve overall bite development
- Support healthier long term oral function
By identifying potential issues early, orthodontic treatment can often become more efficient and predictable.
How Impacted Canines Are Treated
Treatment depends on the position of the impacted tooth and the child’s stage of development.
Monitoring Growth and Development
In some cases, removing a retained baby tooth may encourage the permanent canine to erupt naturally.
Creating Space with Orthodontics
Braces or other orthodontic appliances may be used to create enough room for the impacted canine to move into position.
Oral Surgery for Impacted Teeth
If the canine remains trapped beneath the gums, surgical exposure may be necessary.
Our experienced oral surgeon support impacted canine cases and coordinate treatment efficiently. During this process, we carefully expose the impacted tooth so orthodontic treatment can help guide it into the proper position.
This collaborative approach helps improve outcomes while keeping treatment as comfortable as possible for patients.
Why Families Choose TS Orthodontics
Families throughout Western North Carolina trust our office because we focus on personalized orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults.
Our practice offers:
- Early orthodontic care for kids
- Advanced diagnostic imaging
- Braces and Invisalign treatment options
- Collaborative care with an oral surgeon for impacted teeth
- Friendly, family focused treatment
- Four convenient office locations
We understand that impacted canine treatment can feel overwhelming for parents. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process and answer questions along the way.
Schedule an Orthodontic Evaluation for Your Child
If your child has a missing canine tooth, delayed eruption, or signs of crowding, early evaluation can make a major difference.
TS Orthodontics proudly serves families across Asheville, North Asheville, Rutherfordton, and Marion with comprehensive orthodontic care and support for impacted canine treatment.
To consult with our team, you can schedule a virtual consultation online or call one of our offices below.
Asheville Office: 828-270-7638.
North Asheville Office: 828-248-0582.
Rutherfordton Office: 828-276-8479.
Marion Office: 828-408-0458.
Conclusion
An impacted canine tooth can delay braces treatment and create additional oral health concerns if not addressed early. Fortunately, early orthodontic care and proper treatment planning can help guide your child’s smile development in the right direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early visits help identify impacted teeth and other developmental concerns.
Can impacted canine teeth come down on their own?
Sometimes. Early intervention and space creation may allow the tooth to erupt naturally. However, some cases require oral surgery and orthodontic guidance.
Does every impacted canine require surgery?
No. Treatment depends on the position of the tooth and how early the issue is identified.
Will impacted canine treatment delay braces?
Without early treatment, impacted canines can extend orthodontic treatment time. Identifying the issue early often improves treatment efficiency.