Impacted Canines

What Is an Impacted Canine?

A Tooth Stuck Beneath the Surface

Canine teeth (the pointed teeth next to your front teeth) play an important role in your bite and smile. Sometimes a canine doesn't erupt on its own and instead stays stuck in the jawbone or gum tissue — usually because there isn't a clear path for it to come in.

Unlike wisdom teeth, impacted canines are almost always guided into place rather than removed, since they're an important part of a healthy, functional bite.

Why Treatment Matters

Common Reasons It's Recommended

Delayed or Missing Eruption

If a canine hasn't come in by the expected age, it's often a sign the tooth needs help finding its way.

Orthodontic Referral

Your orthodontist may identify an impacted canine on x-rays during treatment planning and refer you for exposure.

Cyst Formation

An impacted tooth can occasionally develop a cyst around it, which is best addressed before it causes further issues.

What to Expect?

The Exposure & Guidance Process

Consultation & Imaging

We use imaging to pinpoint the tooth's exact position and coordinate a treatment plan with your orthodontist.

The Procedure

We surgically expose the tooth and attach a small bracket and chain, which your orthodontist uses to guide it into place. You're monitored continuously throughout for comfort and safety.

Orthodontic Guidance

Over the following months, your orthodontist gradually pulls the tooth into its proper position using the attached chain.

Comfort Options

Anesthesia & Sedation

We offer a range of options depending on the procedure and your comfort level, discussed with you ahead of time at your consultation.

Local Anesthesia

Numbs the treatment area while you stay fully awake and aware — often used for more straightforward extractions.

Nitrous Oxide

A mild, inhaled sedative that helps ease anxiety without putting you to sleep, typically paired with local anesthesia.

Oral Premedication

A calming medication taken before your visit for patients who feel anxious about the procedure.

IV Sedation

Delivered through a vein for a deeper, more complete state of relaxation — often used for more involved cases or higher anxiety levels.

See full details on our Anesthesia Options page →

Insurance

We Stay In-Network

We're in-network with most dental and medical insurance plans — not just accepting them — and we'll walk you through your real options, working closely with your orthodontist along the way.