Palatally impacted canine: diagnosis and treatment options

Abstract

Canines contribute significantly to the esthetic and chewing functions. Orthodontists should diagnose canine ectopic eruption early, trying to prevent retention of these teeth. Its multifactorial etiology involves general and local factors and the correct diagnosis depends on clinic, radiographic and/ or tomographic exams. Several therapeutic procedures depend on factors such as relationship between canine and adjacent structures, possibility of orthodontic movement and patient age. Orthodontic and surgical treatment with canine traction is very much effective, with time of treatment being shorter than in patients under the age of 25.