I’ll be 17 in December, and my permanent top left canine tooth hasn’t erupted yet. The primary tooth is still there. Last year, my dentist took an X-ray and said my mouth is small, so it’s taking longer for the tooth to erupt. Should I see an orthodontist for braces? Thanks. Hunter from AL
Hunter,
Permanent canine teeth typically emerge around ages 10-12. If they haven’t erupted by age 14, the tooth may be impacted. Addressing the issue promptly increases the chances of guiding the tooth into its correct position. Delaying treatment allows the canine to fuse to the bone, making it impossible to move and requiring extraction.
To assess the situation, a panoramic X-ray of the jaw is crucial for revealing whether the root of the unerupted canine is fully formed. If it’s not, the tooth still has some natural eruptive force. Extracting the primary tooth can clear a path and encourage the permanent tooth to erupt.
What to Expect When a Permanent Canine Tooth Doesn’t Erupt
If your primary canine tooth is loose, the crown of the permanent tooth is likely just beneath the surface and may erupt naturally. If it’s not loose, the X-ray will reveal the permanent tooth’s location. Given your concerns about your current dentist, we recommend consulting an orthodontist for a second opinion. The complete formation of the tooth root contributes to its eruptive force, so a professional assessment can determine if your permanent canine requires assistance to erupt. It’s generally not advisable to use a replacement tooth to fill the space, which can hinder the canine’s natural eruption.
(Image courtesy of Manhattan Oral Surgery & Implant Center)
If the tooth needs help erupting, the procedure is straightforward:
- Surgically expose the crown of the canine tooth
- Attach a bracket to the exposed tooth.
- Use a chain connected to a spring to guide the canine into position gently.
- As the tooth moves, gradually shorten the chain link by link.
It takes about a year to bring the canine into its proper alignment.
Baton Rouge family dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post. Please read about how he strives to provide his patients with the best care possible.