Focus on leveling the hidden: managing impacted maxillary canines

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dentofacial Orthopedics

Background:

• Maxillary canine impaction (IMC) is a common orthodontic challenge.
• The eruption path of canines makes them susceptible to displacement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the complexities of managing impacted maxillary canines (IMC).
• To provide insights through clinical case studies.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical case studies on IMC management.
• Discussion of diagnostic and treatment planning considerations.

Main Results:

• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for successful IMC treatment.
• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) aids in precise localization and treatment planning.
• Both open and closed surgical exposure techniques are viable options.

Conclusions:

• Effective IMC management requires meticulous diagnosis, judicious CBCT use, strategic surgical approach, and understanding of orthodontic biomechanics.
• Potential adverse outcomes like ankylosis, prolonged treatment, and root resorption must be anticipated and managed.