Did you know that our canine teeth are also known as “eye teeth?” It may sound strange, but there’s a logical explanation for the nickname: the canines are simply aligned with the position of our eyes. Our canines are important for biting and guiding the rest of the teeth in position when you close your mouth. Canines also have the longest root compared to the rest of your teeth, making them the last to erupt. Sometimes canines fail to erupt properly, which causes problems for the capacity and appearance of your mouth. All Coast Dental in Pacific, CA, takes pride in educating her patients about everything dental!
An impacted canine simply means that the tooth has failed to erupt through your gums. Some causes of impacted canines include:
-Cysts: abnormal growths on the gums
-Overcrowding: when teeth are squished together from lack of space in the mouth
-Extra teeth: when an additional tooth occupies the space where the canine is supposed to erupt
-Ankylosed: when the canine tooth root is intertwined with the surrounding bone
There are some additional signs of an impacted canine to look for. This includes the presence of a palatal lump, the delayed eruption of the canine (usually after 15 years old), and the absence of a labial canine lump. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it’s possible that you have an impacted canine.
Do you think you have impacted canines? Come in for a checkup! All Coast Dental is located at 2180 Garnet Ave., Suite 1-K, in Pacific, CA 92109. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit allcoastdental.net or call 858-270-4904.