This webpage has been designed to improve understanding of Canines and contains answers to the most commonly asked questions about this treatment. If you have any other questions that the website does not answer or would like further explanation please ask a member of our medical staff.

The problem
The canine, or eye tooth, normally erupts into the mouth between the ages of 11 and 13. Sometimes one or both canines develop in the wrong position. Often they lie across the roof of the mouth behind the front teeth.

Why is treatment needed?
Because one or other of the canines is in the wrong place as part of the patient's on-going orthodontic treatment it is necessary to help the tooth erupt into the mouth. If left alone the tooth will not erupt normally and may either damage the roots of the front teeth or push them out of position.

What does the treatment involve?
Helping the tooth erupt into the mouth involves a relatively minor surgical procedure. This usually takes place under a “day case” general anaesthetic, ie although the patient is put to sleep completely they will be able to go home on the same day as surgery. While the patient is asleep the gum lying over the canine will be pushed back. Occasionally some of the bone surrounding the crown of the tooth also needs to be removed.

How will the orthodontist pull the tooth into the correct position?
Once the canine is exposed one of three things will happen under the same anaesthetic. This will already have been discussed prior to surgery.

Bracket and chain
A small bracket is glued to the tooth. Attached to this is a chain, which the orthodontist can then use to pull the tooth into the right position. The chain is usually stitched out of the way but it is quite delicate and therefore it is important to be careful when eating for the first few weeks after surgery.

A plate
Sometimes a small window will be cut in the gum over the tooth and a plastic “dressing” plate put in place to cover the area. This plate is held in the mouth with clips that attach to some of the back teeth. It is important that the plate is worn all the time except when the patient takes it out to clean their teeth. Without the plate the gum may grow back making it difficult for the orthodontist to move the tooth into position.

A pack
Sometimes a pack made from gauze soaked in an antiseptic is placed over the tooth after it is exposed. The pack is kept in position with stitches and removed after a few weeks. Patients must be careful not to dislodge the pack. If this happens it is essential to contact the department for advice.

Sometimes it is necessary to hold the gum back in the right position with stitches at the end of the operation. These are usually dissolvable and take about two weeks to disappear.

Is there much pain or swelling?
All of the above procedures are not particularly painful but patients will obviously experience some soreness afterwards. There is usually very little in the way of swelling. If it is likely to be sore the Surgeon will arrange painkillers. It is not usually necessary to take antibiotics.

Is another appointment required?
Patients will need to return 1-2 weeks after surgery to have the area checked by the orthodontist or surgeon. Further appointments after this will obviously be necessary for on-going orthodontic care.

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