Did you know that more than one in five adults in the United States haven’t visited the dentist in a few years? Avoiding the dentist can cause serious health issues down the line.
You don’t want to avoid the dentist if you’re experiencing an impacted canine tooth. Impacted teeth cause pain and damage if not treated.
Thankfully, there are ways to treat impacted teeth. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about treating an impacted canine tooth.
What Are Impacted Teeth?
Impacted teeth are teeth that do not grow in properly. Either something obstructs their movement, or there is not enough room for all the teeth.
Impacted teeth get stuck in the gums. Sometimes the tooth peeks out of the gum line, and sometimes it is not visible at all.
Canines and wisdom teeth are commonly impacted. In some cases, impacted baby teeth refuse to fall out.
Signs of Impacted Teeth
Since you may not be able to see the impacted tooth, stay aware of the signs. Impacted teeth often cause pain such as headaches, jaw aches, or gum pain. Keep your eye out for gaps in your teeth, bad breath, and a bad taste in your mouth. These hard-to-reach areas can become pockets that allow bacteria to grow and thrive.
If your teeth are crowded and you don’t see an obvious gap, regular visits to the dentist or orthodontist are essential. Your dentist will be able to see impacted teeth on your x-rays.
How to Treat an Impacted Canine Tooth
If left untreated, impacted teeth can cause tooth decay, pain, and even periodontal disease. It is important to visit an oral surgeon to have the tooth treated.
The most effective treatment for impacted canine teeth or wisdom teeth is extraction. A skilled oral surgeon will perform impacted canine surgery to remove the tooth.
Another way to treat an impacted canine tooth is to use braces. Your orthodontist will first expose a small portion of the impacted tooth.
They will then attach a ring and chain that will slowly bring the tooth in line with the other teeth. Once the tooth has moved down, traditional braces can ensure proper alignment.
Cost and Insurance Options
Cases of impacted teeth are one of the reasons why dental insurance is important. Without insurance, tooth extractions can cost up to $650.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Other commonly impacted teeth are wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth often cause crowding or tooth decay, and need to be removed. Many dental insurance plans cover wisdom teeth extractions.
Insurance benefits can cover between 50% to 80% of the oral surgeon’s fees.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Implants?
You may consider a dental implant after a tooth extraction. Implants are often expensive. But there are a few dental insurance plans that cover implants.
Are Dental Insurance Premiums Tax Deductible?
Certain dental insurance premiums are tax-deductible. If you use insurance for procedures that prevent or lessen disease, it is tax-deductible.
When you use dental insurance for cosmetic reasons, such as teeth whitening or veneers, you cannot deduct the premiums.
Treat Impacted Teeth Today
If you are living with an impacted canine tooth, do not wait to get treatment. Visit a skilled oral surgeon in Los Angeles today.
If you live in the West Valley area, contact us today and we’ll set up a complimentary consultation.
