Impacted Canine x-ray

Dentist r adiograph (xray), which shows an unerupted and impacted upper left permanent canine tooth. This is often seen in cases in which the permanent lateral incisor is missing, small in shape and in certain malocclusion types (Class II division II). In 85% of cases, the canine tooth drifts towards the palate (roof of mouth), with only 15% ending up bucally (towards the cheek/lip). When teeth drift away from their correct position, adjacent teeth are at risk from damage by resorption or cystic enlargement. The position of the tooth is located using a radiographic (xray) technique called ‘parallax’. An orthodontist may advise the removal of this unerupted tooth or attempt to align it with fixed braces as part of the overall orthodontics treatment plan. A dentist should palpate for the upper canines around 9-10 years of age in the buccal sulcus.