My Permanent Canine Tooth Won’t Erupt

I’m 16 and one of my baby canines hasn’t fallen out yet. When I was 14, I lost the other one, and the adult tooth did come in, though it took about six months. At my checkup last year, the dentist said I had all my adult teeth, but my small mouth makes them erupt slowly. He expected I’d lose my other baby canine soon.

It’s been a year, and the tooth isn’t even wobbly. I’m starting to worry I might have a gap when the tooth finally comes out. My dentist didn’t make it sound like a problem, and I can’t find much about it online. Are there any temporary options to cover the space until the adult tooth grows in? – Thanks. Jakob

Jakob,

By age 14, permanent canines should already have erupted. If they haven’t, there is usually an underlying issue. Canines often become impacted and cannot erupt without help. Addressing the problem early makes treatment easier both clinically and socially. Waiting until 16 or 17 complicates the process.

Using an X-ray to Identify Tooth Location and Treatment for Eruption

A panoramic X-ray can reveal the position and development of the permanent canine. If the root is not fully formed, the tooth still has eruptive force. Removing the baby tooth can create space for eruption. If the baby canine feels loose, the permanent crown is probably nearby. If not, the X-ray will clarify its position and readiness.

Because treatment depends on accurate interpretation, it’s wise to consult an orthodontist. They can evaluate whether the tooth will erupt naturally or require surgical help. Avoid using a replacement tooth to cover the space, since this may block eruption.

What Happens If the Tooth Is Impacted?

An orthodontist can expose the crown of the impacted permanent canine to guide it into place and allow it to erupt. Placing an orthodontic bracket on a tooth and guiding tooth movement with a spring and chain on the bracket can gradually help move the tooth into position.

Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, sponsors this post. Read how he strives to provide some of the best dental care in Rocky Hill.