Impacted Canine Exposure

An impacted canine is a tooth that is stuck beneath the gum and hasn’t erupted into its correct position. It is a very common situation that we see and treat often. With a little help from our team, we can gently guide the tooth into place, ensuring a healthy and beautiful smile.

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Why Early Treatment Matters

Your canine teeth—the “eye teeth”—are incredibly important. They play a key role in your bite and help guide your other teeth into the correct position. They also support the corners of your mouth, which is important for facial symmetry.

When these teeth get stuck, they can cause problems if left untreated. An impacted canine might push against the roots of nearby healthy teeth, causing damage. It can also disrupt your orthodontic treatment, making braces take longer. Treating this early is the best way to avoid complications. By exposing the tooth now, we help it erupt naturally and keep your smile on track.

Why Choose Yen Oral Surgery

Our oral surgery team has extensive experience helping patients with impacted canines, using gentle techniques to ensure the best results. We will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure your treatment plan is seamless and coordinated. Using advanced imaging, we can see exactly where the tooth is hiding and plan the safest approach. Your comfort is our priority, and we focus on clear communication and minimally invasive methods to help you heal quickly and get back to living your life.

What to Expect: Consultation to Recovery

We believe in walking you through every step so there are no surprises.

Consultation & Imaging: Your journey starts with a simple visit. We use advanced 3D scans to locate the impacted tooth with precision. We’ll also talk with your orthodontist to make sure the timing is best for your specific needs.
The Procedure: On the day of your procedure, we will make sure you are completely comfortable. We offer sedation options so you can relax or sleep through the visit. Your surgeon will gently lift the gum to expose the hidden tooth and will then likely attach a small bracket and a tiny gold chain to the tooth. This chain will be used by your orthodontist to slowly guide the tooth into place over time.
Recovery & Aftercare: Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the recovery is. You might have some mild swelling or soreness for a day or two, but this is easily managed. We will give you simple, clear instructions on how to care for your recovering smile at home. Most people are able to return to school or work within a couple of days.

Schedule Your Consultation

Your orthodontist has a plan for your smile, and we are here to help make it possible. We are committed to making the surgical side of your treatment as smooth, clear, and stress-free as we can. Let us help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. Schedule your initial consultation today to get started.

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Common Questions

We want you to feel confident in your care. Here are answers to some questions we hear often.

It is generally not recommended to leave an impacted canine untreated. Over time, it can damage the roots of neighboring teeth, cause cysts to form, or lead to other dental issues. Treating it early helps protect your overall oral health.

The procedure itself is usually quite quick, typically taking about 45 minutes to an hour. However, the process of the tooth moving into the correct position with braces will take place over several months, guided by your orthodontist.

The price can vary depending on the complexity of the impaction and your specific insurance coverage. We will provide a clear, detailed breakdown of all costs during your consultation, so you know exactly what to expect. We also offer flexible payment options to help make care accessible.

Meet Dr. Kevin Yen

Dr. Kevin Yen, DDS, MD, brings over 15 years of dedicated experience to his patients. His advanced training as both a dentist and a medical doctor gives him a unique and comprehensive understanding of your oral health. Dr. Yen is deeply committed to exceeding your expectations and ensuring your experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible. His gentle approach and unwavering focus on patient well-being have made him a respected surgeon in our community.