Impacted Canines in
Las Vegas, NV

Expert Surgical Care for Proper Canine Tooth Eruption

Canines, also known as cuspids or eyeteeth, play a crucial role in dental function and aesthetics. When these teeth fail to erupt properly, they become impacted, remaining trapped beneath the gums or growing in the wrong position. At Blue Diamond Oral Surgery, we specialize in diagnosing and treating impacted canines, helping patients in Las Vegas, Blue Diamond, Enterprise, Spring Valley, and Southern Highlands restore their natural tooth alignment. Dr. Kristi Agari provides advanced surgical solutions to guide canines into proper position or remove them when necessary.

What Are Impacted Canines?

Canines are essential for biting, guiding proper tooth alignment, and maintaining a balanced smile. Normally, these teeth erupt between the ages of 11 and 13, but in some cases, they become stuck due to obstruction, overcrowding, or improper positioning.

Impacted canines may:

• Remain trapped in the jawbone
• Erupt in the wrong position
• Push against adjacent teeth, causing crowding or damage
• Lead to cyst formation or other complications

Early detection and treatment of impacted canines improve the chances of preserving the natural tooth and guiding it into place.

Signs and Symptoms of Impacted Canines

While some patients may be unaware they have an impacted canine, common signs include:

• Delayed eruption of adult canine teeth
• A gap where a canine should be
• Swelling or tenderness in the upper gums
• Protrusion or misalignment of neighboring teeth
• Discomfort or pressure in the upper jaw

If an impacted canine is suspected, our team at Blue Diamond Oral Surgery will perform a detailed examination, including CBCT scanning, to assess the position of the tooth and develop a treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Impacted Canines

1. Orthodontic Exposure and Eruption Assistance

For cases where the impacted canine can be saved and repositioned, a minor surgical procedure is performed to expose the tooth. An orthodontic bracket and chain are then attached to guide the tooth into proper alignment over time.

2. Surgical Extraction

If the impacted canine is severely mispositioned, fused to the bone, or causing complications, extraction may be necessary to prevent crowding, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth.

3. Tooth Replacement Options

If a canine tooth is removed, it can be replaced with a dental implant or bridge to restore function and aesthetics.

Our team will evaluate your specific case and recommend the best treatment approach based on the position of the tooth and your overall oral health.

The Impacted Canine Treatment Process

1. Diagnostic Imaging and Consultation

A comprehensive exam and CBCT imaging allow us to assess the exact location of the impacted canine and determine the best course of action.

2. Surgical Exposure or Extraction

• If the goal is to reposition the tooth, a small incision is made to expose the impacted canine, and an orthodontic bracket is attached.
• If removal is necessary, the impacted tooth is carefully extracted to prevent damage to surrounding teeth and bone.

3. Healing and Follow-Up Care

Patients undergoing tooth exposure will continue working with their orthodontist to guide the tooth into place. Those who have a tooth extracted will receive guidance on tooth replacement options if needed.

4. Long-Term Monitoring

Regular checkups ensure that the tooth is moving correctly or that the extraction site heals properly.

Who Needs Treatment for an Impacted Canine?

Early intervention is recommended for patients who:

• Are between ages 11 and 14 and have delayed canine eruption
• Have an impacted canine detected on X-rays
• Experience pain, pressure, or crowding due to an unerupted canine
• Are undergoing orthodontic treatment and require canine exposure for alignment

For adults, impacted canines may require extraction and replacement, depending on the severity of the condition.

Why Choose Blue Diamond Oral Surgery for Impacted Canine Treatment?

• Experienced Oral Surgeon – Dr. Kristi Agari specializes in complex surgical procedures, including canine exposure and extractions.
• State-of-the-Art Imaging – CBCT scanning ensures precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Comprehensive Sedation Options – Patients can choose IV sedation or nitrous oxide for a comfortable, stress-free procedure.
• Collaborative Treatment Approach – We work closely with orthodontists to coordinate the best treatment outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an impacted canine be saved?

Yes. If detected early, an impacted canine can often be exposed and guided into place with orthodontic treatment.

Is surgery necessary for an impacted canine?

Surgery is required when the tooth is trapped under the gums and needs to be exposed for orthodontic alignment or removed due to complications.

Does impacted canine surgery hurt?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort. Mild soreness and swelling after surgery can be managed with prescribed medications.

What happens if an impacted canine is not treated?

Untreated impacted canines can cause misalignment, cyst formation, or damage to nearby teeth. Early treatment prevents these complications.

How long does it take for an exposed canine to move into place?

The orthodontic process may take several months to a year, depending on the position of the tooth and the patient’s response to treatment.