Overview
When a tooth is trapped in the gums or bone and is unable to erupt into the mouth properly, it is said to be impacted. While any tooth can be impacted, the upper canines (commonly referred to as “eye teeth” or “cuspids”) are the second most likely tooth in the mouth to be stuck in the jaw, just behind wisdom teeth. The canines are the pointed teeth in the front of the mouth that help frame the smile. But they are also important to oral function, play a key role in your bite, and help to keep the teeth and jaws aligned. Drs. Stephen DeMarco, Diego Miron, and Luis Delgado of Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons offer specialized treatment for impacted canines and work closely with general dentists and orthodontists to meet the needs of Albany, NY patients. If you or your child may have a tooth impaction, please schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified oral surgeons to learn more about your treatment options.
Best Candidates
Upper canine teeth (or maxillary canines) typically erupt around age 13. The older a person becomes, the less likely an impacted canine will erupt on its own and the more likely it will require treatment. Causes of impacted canines may include tooth misalignment, overcrowding of the teeth, cysts or other growths, insufficient space in the arch, or supernumerary (extra) teeth in the jaw. The earlier tooth impaction is identified, the greater the chances of successfully helping the tooth emerge and perform its normal function. It is generally recommended that all Albany, NY patients have a diagnostic panoramic x-ray or 3D digital image taken by age seven to evaluate tooth eruption patterns, jaw development, visualize the positioning of unerupted permanent teeth, or screen for signs of potential tooth impaction.
What to Expect
At Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, our board-certified specialists will collaborate with your orthodontist or general dentist to determine the ideal treatment for impacted canines. This could include the extraction of teeth that may be preventing canine eruption, including retained primary (baby) teeth or supernumerary teeth. In some cases, we may make an incision in the gums to expose the surface of the canine. An orthodontic chain or bracket can then be attached to the tooth and used to gently guide its eruption into the proper place within the arch. For some patients, such as adults over the age of 40, leaving an impacted eye tooth that poses no immediate health risks may be the best course of care.
Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Reviews
Very friendly staff. Clean well appointed office.
Due to a cracked tooth and pain needing urgent attention, Dr Goodenough’s office got me in within 24 hours. The staff was friendly, professional and efficient from the front desk, the billing department and all the staff that cared for me during the procedure. I was impressed with the efficiency with which they all worked together.Dr. Goodenough and Nicole explained the multi step procedure of tooth extraction, bone graft and dental implant with patience and answered all my questions. Dr. Goodenough skillfully removed my tooth without complication and placed the bone graft, while continually checking on my comfort level.Shout out to Dr. Goodenough, Nicole, Wendy, Melissa and the really nice receptionist that helped me when I first arrived!!I highly recommend this office!!!
Dr. Goodenough and his team were great. Felicity at the front desk was very sweet and helpful. From the making of my consult on the phone to my surgery it was a very pleasant experience. Highly recommend Dr. Goodenough.
I was rather apprehensive going there due to major fear of needles and medical offices in general. The staff there was extremely understanding. Brian the EMT was extremely understanding when I needed time for the needle and allowing me to ask questions. Christina (not sure of her position there) was very comforting and reassuring the entire time and made sure my first time going under was a pleasant one. Seeing as how I don’t remember much after that I would say that I had a very pleasant experience here. Thank you to the whole team!
Dr Demarco and his staff are exceptional. Extremely friendly, provides information on whats taking place, can’t say what a pleasure it is to meet a great Doctor in these crazy times!
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Recovery
Following impacted tooth treatment, our clinical team will provide you with instructions on how to care for your mouth as you heal. You may be instructed to return to your orthodontist or dentist for further treatment (such as adding a rubber band to an orthodontic chain or bracket) if canine exposure was the treatment you received. In cases of impacted canine extraction, you may be asked to avoid smoking, spitting, or drinking through a straw for a few days as your mouth begins to heal. Our Albany, NY oral surgeons may recommend that you schedule a follow-up visit at our practice so that we can monitor the area as it recovers.
Insurance Coverage
Treatment for impacted canines may be covered under some dental insurance plans. A member of our financial team will review your insurance benefits and provide you with a cost estimate for any portion that may not be covered. To help make out-of-pocket expenses more affordable for our patients, Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons is pleased to accept CareCredit® financing plans and a variety of other convenient payment options.
Impacted Canines
Treating impacted canine teeth can help ensure the best possible outcome for your or your child’s oral health, function, and smile. Our skilled oral surgeons have advanced training and extensive experience in performing tooth extractions and exposing impacted canines to facilitate proper tooth eruption. For more on treating impacted eye teeth, please schedule a consultation at Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons in Albany, NY today.