Maxillary Canine Impactions: Orthodontic and Surgical Management.

ABSTRACT

Canines are important teeth in terms of esthetic and function. The Maxillary Canines are also known as ‘Corner stone of smiles’ or ‘Eye teeth’. Impaction of canines is a common occurrence and clinicians must have a sound knowledge to manage such cases. Dachi and Howell reported that the incidence of maxillary canine impaction is 0.92%, and mandibular canine impaction is 0.35% among which 8% patients bilateral impactions. No prosthesis can match the originality of contour, shape and color of original canine. So every attempt should be made to retrieve the impacted canine. With early detection, timely interception and well managed surgical and orthodontic treatment; impacted canines can be erupted and guided to an appropriate location in the dental arch. This paper presents a literature review regarding etiology, clinical and radiographic diagnosis, as well as surgical and orthodontic management of impacted canine along with case presentations.