An impacted tooth is a tooth that is blocked or “stuck” underneath the gum line and does not erupt into its correct position on its own. Most often, an impacted tooth will be a wisdom tooth, but it is a common occurrence in canine teeth as well.

 

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic examination by the age of seven, which gives us the opportunity to monitor your child’s tooth eruption and detect impactions early.

 

If your child develops an impacted canine, a simple surgical procedure can assist the emergence of the tooth. The tooth is surgically exposed by cutting a small flap in the surrounding gum. After the tooth is exposed, an orthodontic bracket is attached to the tooth to help guide its movement.

 

With early detection and combined surgical and orthodontic treatment, impacted canines can be guided into the most ideal position in your child’s mouth.