Guidelines for the assessment of the impacted maxillary canine

Abstract

Canine impactions are frequently encountered, occurring in 1.7% of the population. The aim of this paper is to provide guidance on the assessment and management of cases which present in general dental practice. Canine position is considered in four categories; canine overlap with adjacent incisor, vertical canine height, angulation to midline and position of canine root apex. Good, average and poor prognostic outcomes are considered for each category and a brief outline of their management is included.

Clinical relevance: Canine impactions frequently present during routine examination. Appropriate recognition, investigation and referral, if necessary, are paramount to successful treatment.