Impacted Canines

Align the Front Teeth for a Proper Bite

The canine teeth are some of the most important teeth in the mouth. Their long roots make them incredibly strong, and they help guide the alignment of the other front teeth. A canine tooth, also called an eyetooth, has a tendency to become impacted or stuck behind the gums. An impacted canine tooth can sometimes erupt properly into the dental arch, but treatment from an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is often necessary.

In most cases, an orthodontist can use braces and other dental devices to align the teeth and make room for the canines to grow in normally. Teeth can become impacted for many different reasons, including having extra teeth, dental overcrowding, or growths blocking the eruption path. Dr. Ben Johnson, Dr. Sohaib Soliman, Dr. Hwi Sean Moon, Dr. Kevin Huang, and Dr. Michael Baily are trained to evaluate and treat impacted canine teeth to ensure they achieve proper function and position in the mouth.

Expose and Bond Procedure

During your first visit, your oral surgeon will perform an oral evaluation, take 3D scans of your mouth to evaluate the position of your teeth, and discuss your anesthesia options. In order to help our patients feel at ease during any procedure, we offer a variety of anesthesia and sedation options to choose from.

When wisdom teeth are impacted, they are extracted because they are not essential for oral function. Canine teeth, however, are vital for a healthy bite and help tear food. The treatment for this issue is called an expose and bond procedure, which is a joint effort between your oral surgeon and orthodontist.

Your oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue and attach a bracket and chain to the tooth. Then, your orthodontist will attach the chain to your braces. Over time, the chain will pull the tooth into its proper position. Braces will help align all of your teeth and ensure you have a properly functioning bite. Once the teeth are all aligned, the braces will be removed.

Treat Impacted Canines in Washington

Pacific Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons has 5 offices located south of Seattle to help our patients achieve a properly functioning bite and a healthy smile. Contact our office if you or your child has an impacted canine or if you’d like an oral examination from one of our highly skilled oral surgeons.