How can impacted canines be brought down? What are my options? (photo)

Question

Hi, about three years ago I got Invisalign. When I got the retainer, I didn't have canines, but the plastic made it seem like I did. I asked the doctor what was going to happen and she explained that my permanent canine would grow into the plastic. However, my Invisalign treatment is over and my canine are only halfway out and impacted. I don't know what to do, is there any way they can be brought down quickly, without the need of braces? I'm willing to do anything, please help me.

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

Based on your photo and short description, you have a couple of options.Option #1 (most conservative method):  Metal braces and brackets to pull your K-9's down and straighten your teeth better.  Will likely take 1-2 years.Option #2 (less conservative method):  See an excellent cosmetic dentist that can crown and veneer your teeth to look 100% natural and perfect.  This would decrease your tooth structure some, but would not cause your tooth roots to shrink, like braces would.  This type of fix would be instant and expected to last a few decades before needing them redone.  Because it is a permanent fix, you wouldn't have to worry about relapse.  The down side is the cost. Good luck to you and I hope this helps. "Follow" me on Real Self to ask more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMD St. Louis, MO

Michael Tam, BDS · Answer

You may need some
orthodontic wires or brackets in place to help guide your canines into place.
Your orthodontist helped save this space in your mouth by creating the “false”
space in your retainer, so that the teeth had room to come in. If you are
naturally missing the teeth then maybe the space was saved so that implants
could eventually be put into place. It’s best to take action right now, because
these teeth should have already erupted and may become more difficult to bring
into place the longer you wait.

Frank Celenza, DDS, PC · Answer

Listen, love.  You're 16 and you need to fix this.  The Invisaligns were a temporary fix anyway.  What happens when you eat?  Out they come.  This is very important, you need to get your cuspids in, depending upon their location it can be done expediently, but they're not coming in by themselves (judging by your age, you're 2 years late already).  You may need to wear braces, I don't know, but I've done many cases with and without, depends upon their location.  In any case, you need to get this done, you have a long life ahead of you, a year or so now is no big deal. It's important.

How can impacted canines be brought down? What are my options? (photo)

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How can impacted canines be brought down? What are my options? (photo)

Answers (3)

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