Impacted canines

Question 1

What is an impacted canine?

Answer 1

A tooth which has been prevented from erupting into its normal functional position by bone, tooth or fibrous tissue

Question 2

What are 3 aetiological factors which contribute to impacted canines?

Answer 2

1. Long path of eruption
2. Crowding
3. Retention of deciduous teeth

Question 3

What are the 2 theories relating to impacted canines?

Answer 3

1. Guidance theory
2. Genetic theory

Question 4

At what age should the canine typically be palpable in the mouth?

When do the canines erupt typically?

Answer 4

Palpable = 10 years old

Erupt = 11-12 years old

Question 5

What are radiographs used to determine in relation to impacted canines? (3 Ps)

Answer 5

Presence
Position
Pathology

Question 6

What 3 types of radiographs are used to assess impacted canines?

Answer 6

1. OPG
2. Vertical Parallax
3. Horizontal Parallax

Question 7

Give 4 potential treatment options seen with impacted canines:

Answer 7

1. Extraction of deciduous tooth
2. Surgical removal
3. Transplantation
4. Exposure and alignment