What can be done surgically for impacted canine teeth?
There are several options for the surgical treatment of impacted canines. Your dentist will explain the options for you which might include: • Removed and discarded – This can be the treatment of choice if the buried tooth is in a poor position for orthodontic re-alignment, or shows signs of causing problems to adjacent teeth. Removal of the tooth involves a minor operation, which can be done under local or mostly under general anaesthetic. If there is a gap to fill where the canine tooth should be, it might be necessary to use a false tooth of some kind (denture or ‘bridge’) • Exposed before orthodontic treatment – If part of the tooth is exposed to the mouth it can allow an orthodontist to move it into correct alignment. This can be an option only if the buried tooth is in a reasonable alignment and the patient is prepared to wear an orthodontic fixed appliance for at least two years. The exposure of the tooth involves a small operation in the palate of the mouth, which is often perf
