Management of Impacted Canines

Abstract

Impacted canines are one of the common problems encountered by the oral surgeon. Patients may present at different ages and many cases will be incidental findings. Close interaction with the paedodontist and orthodontist is required to get an optimal outcome. Surgical removal may not be the best treatment in all the cases and particular treatment plan will have to be tailored for the needs of the patient. Localizing the impacted canine seems not a challenge any more with the advent of CBCT, in indicated cases. This chapter elaborates on canine impaction, keeping in mind the basic principles mentioned in the chapter on third molar impactions. Premolars, incisors and other teeth may be impacted but most of the surgical principles and approaches mentioned for canine can be applied to them as well.