Surgical and orthodontic management of impacted maxillary canines

Abstract

Impaction of the maxillary canine is a frequently encountered problem in orthodontic practice. Maxillary canines are the most commonly impacted teeth next to the third molars. Alignment of an impacted canine requires a combined surgical and orthodontic approach. Maxillary canines present a high esthetic and functional demand, hence, a precise diagnosis and treatment planning with soft tissue considerations is essential for a favorable and stable outcome. An overview of the etiology, incidence, and diagnosis of the factors affecting the management of impacted maxillary canines, the soft tissue consideration, and various surgical and orthodontic techniques have been discussed.

Keywords

• diagnosis
• impacted canine
• surgical management