Will my permanent canine tooth ever erupt, or should I ask a dentist for an artificial tooth to fill the space? At age 17, I still have a baby canine tooth on the top right. My dentist took an X-ray last year and said that the permanent canine tooth is there, but it’s taking longer to erupt because my mouth is small. There has been no change or sign that the tooth is erupting. Should I be concerned? I prefer to fill the space if the tooth isn’t going to erupt. Thanks. – Finn from OK
Finn,
Canine teeth typically erupt between ages 10 and 12. If a canine hasn’t emerged by age 14, it’s essential to investigate. Impacted canines, which cannot erupt on their own, require intervention. The earlier the intervention, the better the chances of successfully moving the tooth into its correct position.
Addressing this issue earlier, perhaps a couple of years ago, would have been more beneficial for the health and appearance of your teeth and your confidence.
A panoramic X-ray will show how much the root of the unerupted canine has developed. If the root isn’t fully formed, the tooth may still have the natural force to erupt. Removing the baby tooth can create space for the permanent canine to erupt.
If the baby canine is loose, the permanent canine is likely positioned directly beneath it and may erupt. If the baby canine is not loose, the X-ray will show how close the permanent canine is to the surface.
A spring-and-chain attachment on an impacted canine tooth
(Image courtesy of Manhattan Oral Surgery & Implant Center)
It’s vital to avoid prematurely filling the space with a replacement tooth (e.g., a partial denture or dental flipper), as this could prevent the canine from erupting.
If intervention is necessary, an orthodontist may surgically expose the canine crown and attach a bracket. Attaching a spring-and-chain mechanism to the bracket can guide the tooth’s eruption. The orthodontist would tighten the chain as the canine moves into position to guide it further. This process typically takes about a year to complete.
We recommend consulting an orthodontist for a second opinion. They have specialized training in tooth movement and can provide a more comprehensive assessment.
The Monroe, Louisiana, dentists at Bayou Dental Group sponsor this post. Please read how Dr. Finley and his team strive to offer some of the best dental care in Monroe.
