As orthodontists, one of the more complex but rewarding cases we treat is the impacted canine. These teeth play a critical role in a healthy bite, guiding the alignment of other teeth and supporting facial aesthetics. When a canine doesn’t erupt on its own, timely intervention can make the difference between a smooth outcome and years of complications. For families in Palo Alto, understanding how impacted canines are treated with braces, Invisalign, and other orthodontic tools is essential.
In this post, we’ll walk through why impacted canines happen, the signs to look for in kids and teens, and the treatment options available—from early orthodontic treatment to two-phase treatment approach
Why Impacted Canines Matter
The canine teeth, often referred to as “cornerstones” of the smile, are crucial for both function and appearance. When one or both become impacted (stuck under the gum or bone), problems may arise:
- Misalignment of surrounding teeth
- Difficulty chewing efficiently
- Risk of root damage to neighboring teeth
- Aesthetic concerns if the canine doesn’t appear in the smile line
Parents in Palo Alto often ask us how early they should be thinking about their child’s orthodontic health. The answer? Earlier than most expect.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early orthodontic treatment gives us the chance to identify impacted canines before they cause bigger issues. Around age 7, an orthodontic evaluation can often show whether canines are erupting properly or veering off course.
Early intervention allows us to:
- Monitor growth and guide eruption with a palatal expanderif space is tight
- Plan two-phase treatment if needed, to create room for proper canine eruption
- Prevent more invasive surgical procedures later in life
Families who start orthodontic monitoring early in Palo Alto often benefit from smoother, less complex treatment down the road.