When tackling orthodontics cases, there’s a good chance you’ll occasionally come across a trickier situation, and knowing how to create the right treatment plan for these can sometimes be tough. One such example is for patients who have impacted canines – but can you leave impacted canines, or should these be addressed first?
Can I Leave Impacted Canines in Orthodontic Cases?
In some cases, it can be obvious that an impacted canine will cause problems during an orthodontic treatment plan. As such, in situations where impacted canines are likely to cause damage to the surrounding teeth during ortho treatment, you will need to address the impacted canines first. This is most common when canines have erupted near to the roots of other teeth.
However, even if you think it might be possible, you should always get professional advice before you agree to do orthodontics for an impacted canines client. Indeed, if something should go wrong because the teeth haven’t been removed, you’ll be liable.
Even if the impacted canines seem high and low risk, always send the CBDT to a dental radiologist or OS first. In the referral form, ask the specialist whether it would be okay to do an orthodontic treatment plan while leaving the affected teeth impacted. The specialist should then let you know whether there is any risk with such cases; make sure you get this in writing to cover yourself, just in case. Also, make sure there is a section relating to this for the informed consent form to cover your business.