An impacted tooth is a tooth that becomes trapped beneath the gums or bone and cannot erupt into its proper position. While wisdom teeth are commonly impacted, other teeth—especially upper canine teeth—can also become impacted.
Because impacted teeth cannot emerge normally, they may affect the alignment of neighboring teeth, the bite, and overall oral health if left untreated.
Several factors can contribute to tooth impaction, including:
Upper canine teeth are particularly prone to impaction because they follow a long and complex eruption path.
In many cases, impacted teeth do not cause pain and are discovered during a routine dental or orthodontic examination.
Signs may include:
Digital X-rays and 3D imaging help orthodontists identify impacted teeth and determine the best treatment approach.
The teeth most commonly affected by impaction include:
Among these, impacted upper canines are one of the most common orthodontic concerns because they play an important role in both smile aesthetics and bite function.
Treatment depends on the tooth's position and the patient's age.
Options may include:
For younger patients, regular orthodontic evaluations can help identify potential eruption problems early.
Braces or clear aligners may be used to create room for the impacted tooth to emerge.
In some cases, removing a retained baby tooth can encourage the permanent tooth to erupt naturally.
If the tooth remains trapped, an oral surgeon may uncover the tooth, and orthodontic treatment can gently guide it into its proper position.
While not all impacted teeth can be prevented, early orthodontic evaluations can identify potential concerns before they become more complicated.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early monitoring allows orthodontists to detect eruption problems and intervene when appropriate.
If a permanent tooth seems delayed, a baby tooth has not fallen out, or your dentist has mentioned a possible impacted tooth, an orthodontic evaluation can help determine the next steps.
Early diagnosis often makes treatment simpler and may help avoid more complex procedures later.
At Essex Orthodontics, Dr. Elizabeth Clanaman uses advanced digital imaging and personalized treatment planning to diagnose and manage impacted teeth in children, teens, and adults.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today to learn about your treatment options and protect the health, function, and appearance of your smile.
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