If your oral surgeon finds an impacted tooth under your gums, they will either recommend treatment or removal. While most people think of molars and wisdom teeth, your canines can also get stuck under your gums, which pose a unique risk to your dental health. Alliance Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Keller, TX, treat this condition through guidance or extraction. They explain more below about the risks of avoiding care and how they decide how to proceed with your tooth. 

Oral Surgeon Guide to Impacted Canines 

What Is an Impacted Canine?

Canines are the pointed teeth located between your incisors and premolars. When impaction occurs, there is no room for the tooth to erupt above the gums. The canine may compensate by growing under the gums at an angle or horizontally. It may also break out the gums partially, revealing a portion of the tooth.

What Are the Risks?

Ignoring impacted canines poses a few significant complications. These teeth are essential for correcting the alignment and improper function of the dental arch, so leaving them under the gums can negatively affect the health and appearance of your smile. Without treatment, you may not be able to bite or chew properly. You may also have significant gaps in your smile. Impacted canines can also cause infection, cysts, and damage to adjacent teeth. 

What Are the Treatment Options? 

While molars usually undergo tooth extraction, your oral surgeon may try to guide your canine into its proper position. If caught early, they can complete the guidance process. Tooth exposure and bracketing are the most popular techniques. If there is no way to move the canine to its place, they made need to take it out. Removal most likely involves surgery and the use of a local anesthetic. Talk with your oral surgery specialist to determine the best course of action for your needs. 

If caught in childhood, impacted canine teeth can easily be treated. However, your dentist is prepared to address your canines, no matter your age or which type of procedure is necessary. To make an appointment to discuss impaction with an oral surgeon, call Alliance Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Keller, TX, at (817) 741-2200. For information about wisdom teeth extraction or dentures, visit their website.