Impacted Canines and Associated Dental Anomalies
Summary
Impacted canines represent one of the most frequent developmental disturbances in the permanent dentition, affecting approximately 1–3% of the population. The maxillary canine is most commonly involved, and failure of eruption may arise from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, arch size discrepancies, ectopic follicle positioning and local obstructions such as supernumerary teeth or cysts. Undiagnosed or late-diagnosed impactions may lead to a spectrum of complications including root resorption of adjacent incisors and premolars, follicular cyst formation, ankylosis and loss of arch space. Impacted canines are also associated with a higher incidence of dental anomalies such as tooth agenesis, peg-shaped lateral incisors, transmigration and transpositions. Three-dimensional imaging has revolutionised diagnostic accuracy and early predictive modelling, while multidisciplinary management involving surgical exposure, orthodontic traction and, where appropriate, computer-guided navigation now underpins contemporary treatment strategies. The global burden of impacted canines encompasses functional impairment, aesthetic concerns and psychosocial impact, underlining the need for evidence-based protocols that balance treatment efficacy with minimisation of iatrogenic harm.
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Impacted Canines and Associated Dental Anomalies publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in impacted canines and associated dental anomalies across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Impacted canine: A tooth that fails to erupt into the dental arch within the expected developmental window due to obstruction, ectopic positioning or developmental disturbance.
Palatal impaction: Displacement of a maxillary canine towards the palate rather than buccal alignment, often requiring specialised surgical and orthodontic techniques for alignment.
Root resorption: Pathological loss of dentine and cementum from the root surface of a tooth, frequently observed adjacent to impacted canines on radiographic examination.
Supernumerary teeth: Additional teeth beyond the normal dentition, which can obstruct eruption pathways and are commonly linked to canine impaction.
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT): A three-dimensional imaging modality that provides high-resolution views of dental and maxillofacial structures, essential for precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
References
- Computer-assisted open exposure of palatally impacted canines for orthodontic eruption: A randomized clinical trial. Journal of Dentistry (2024).
- Comparisons of Dental Anomalies in Orthodontic Patients with Impacted Maxillary and Mandibular Canines. Diagnostics (2023).
- Statistical shape analysis of maxillary palatal morphology in patients with palatally displaced canines. BMC Medical Imaging (2023).
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