Maxillary canine impactions: orthodontic and surgical management

With the exception of the maxillary and mandibular third molars, the maxillary canine is the most commonly encountered impaction. In North America, palatally located impactions appear to predominate over labially impacted canines and occur more frequently in women. Because of the common nature of this phenomenon, the general dentist should know how to properly diagnose and manage potential disturbances in the eruption of the maxillary canine. If diagnosed early, and when clinically and radiographically indicated, extraction of the deciduous canine may help correct the eruption path of the permanent tooth and prevent impaction. This article reviews the etiology, prevention, and surgical and orthodontic management of impacted cuspids. Because the general dentist is often the first dental care provider to come in contact with patients with impacted canines, knowledge about this common dental anomaly is essential to provide proper comprehensive therapy.