How Impacted Canine Teeth Can Disrupt Your Daily Life and Smile

Impacted canine teeth are more common than you might think, and if left untreated, they can cause more than just cosmetic concerns. For many people in Los Angeles, where a confident smile is everything, impacted canines can be a frustrating and sometimes painful issue.
 

What Are Impacted Canine Teeth?

Your canine teeth—often called “eye teeth” or “fangs”—play a critical role in your bite. They help guide your other teeth into place, tear food, and support a strong, well-aligned jaw. However, sometimes these teeth don’t erupt as they should and instead remain trapped under the gums or stuck against other teeth.
 

Impacted canine often occurs due to lack of space in the mouth, genetic factors, or obstructions like baby teeth that never fell out properly. While it’s common for wisdom teeth to become impacted, canine teeth are unique because they’re essential for both function and aesthetics.
 

How Impacted Canine Teeth Can Affect Your Daily Life

1. Changes to Your Smile and Confidence

In a city like Los Angeles, where first impressions and self-image can make all the difference, an impacted canine tooth can disrupt your smile’s natural alignment. A missing or out-of-place tooth can make people feel self-conscious, leading them to hide their smile in photos or social situations.

2. Difficulty Eating and Speaking

Canine teeth are essential for tearing food efficiently. If one is impacted, you may find yourself favoring one side of your mouth when chewing, leading to uneven wear on your teeth. Some people also experience speech difficulties, especially if the impacted tooth has caused crowding or misalignment.

3. Pain and Discomfort

Impacted canines don’t always hurt, but when they do, the discomfort can be persistent. You might feel pressure in your gums, experience tenderness around the jaw, or even develop cysts or infections if the tooth remains stuck for too long. If you’re dealing with jaw pain or unexplained soreness in your gums, an impacted canine could be the culprit.

4. Increased Risk of Dental Issues

When a canine tooth fails to erupt, it can create a domino effect of oral health problems. The pressure from an impacted tooth can cause damage to neighboring teeth, potentially leading to misalignment, enamel erosion, or even tooth loss over time. Additionally, food and bacteria can become trapped around the impacted area, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
 

What Can Be Done?

The good news is that impacted canines can be treated successfully with the right approach. Depending on the severity of the impaction and your age, treatment may involve:
 

•          Surgical Exposure – If the tooth is stuck beneath the gums, a minor surgical procedure can help expose it so it can be guided into place.

•          Tooth Extraction & Replacement – In severe cases, where the impacted tooth cannot be saved, it may need to be removed and replaced with a dental implant.
 

Don’t Let an Impacted Canine Hold You Back

If you’re struggling with an impacted canine tooth, it’s not something to ignore. Early intervention can prevent long-term dental complications and help you achieve the healthy, confident smile you deserve. Whether you need a surgical procedure or guidance on your best treatment options, our team is here to help.
 

At Wilshire Oral Surgery and Implant Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating impacted canine teeth with personalized, expert care. Visit our office in Los Angeles, California, or call (310) 954-9449 to schedule a consultation today.