When permanent canine teeth don’t emerge on their own, it can affect both the function and appearance of a child’s smile. Around the age of 12, canine impaction is fairly common, and with timely, expert treatment, these teeth can be safely guided into their proper position.
At Sculpt Center for Implants & Periodontics in McLean, Dr. Fadi Hasan, a board-certified periodontist, provides precise, compassionate care to help children and teens achieve healthy, confident smiles. Working closely with orthodontists, he ensures every patient receives coordinated, comfortable, and effective treatment from start to finish.
What Is Impacted Canine Exposure?
Canine exposure is a minor surgical procedure that helps an unerupted (impacted) canine tooth emerge into its correct place in the dental arch. During treatment, Dr. Hasan carefully uncovers the tooth so that an orthodontist can guide it into alignment using braces or clear aligners.
This collaborative process supports proper bite development, aesthetic balance, and long-term oral health.
Dr. Fadi Hasan
At Sculpt Center for Implants & Periodontics, you’ll work directly with Dr. Fadi Hasan, a board-certified periodontist and dental implant surgeon who blends precision, artistry, and compassion. He listens to your goals, uses advanced microsurgical techniques, and delivers natural, lasting results that restore your confidence and your smile.
Why Treat Impacted Canines Early
When a canine becomes impacted, stuck beneath the gum or jawbone, it can interfere with neighboring teeth and complicate orthodontic treatment. Early diagnosis and exposure help prevent these issues and ensure smooth alignment.
Benefits of Canine Exposure:
- Improved alignment: Guides teeth into the correct position for a healthy, functional bite.
- Reduced discomfort: Relieves pressure and inflammation caused by trapped teeth.
- Preserved bone and tissue health: Prevents cysts or damage to adjacent teeth.
- Improved orthodontic outcomes: Makes bracket or aligner placement more efficient.
- Enhanced confidence: Supports a complete, natural-looking smile.
“Collaboration is key. By working directly with orthodontists, we make sure every step supports proper growth and long-term stability.”
– Dr. Hasan
What to Expect During Treatment
Dr. Hasan performs this procedure using microsurgical techniques designed for precision and comfort.
1. Consultation and Imaging
Your child’s visit begins with a gentle evaluation and digital imaging to locate the impacted tooth and plan its exposure. Dr. Hasan coordinates directly with your orthodontist to ensure alignment goals are clear.
2. Comfort-Focused Procedure
Under local anesthesia or light sedation, Dr. Hasan creates a small opening in the gum to reveal the hidden tooth. In most cases, a small bracket and orthodontic chain are attached so the orthodontist can gradually guide the tooth into place.
3. Recovery and Guidance
Healing is typically quick, with mild tenderness for a few days. Our team provides detailed at-home care instructions, and Dr. Hasan remains available to ensure your child’s comfort throughout recovery.
Compassionate Care Every Step of the Way
Dr. Hasan understands that surgical care for children requires not only precision but also trust and reassurance for families.
We know that any procedure involving your child can feel stressful. At Sculpt Center, your family’s comfort and peace of mind are always our priority. Dr. Hasan takes time to explain each step, answer every question, and ensure your child feels safe and supported before, during, and after treatment.
Sedation options are available for anxious patients, and our team monitors your child closely throughout the procedure. Parents are welcome to stay informed and involved, knowing their child is receiving gentle, attentive care in a calm, reassuring environment.
Collaborating with Orthodontists for Seamless Results
Successful canine exposure treatment depends on teamwork. That’s why Dr. Hasan works directly with your child’s orthodontist to ensure every step of the process supports healthy tooth movement and balanced alignment.
From imaging and treatment planning to post-surgical coordination, both specialists communicate closely to guide the tooth into place safely and predictably. This collaborative approach reduces treatment time, enhances comfort, and ensures your child’s smile develops in perfect harmony.
“Collaboration allows us to plan precisely, move confidently, and give each child the best possible outcome.”
– Dr. Hasan
What Are Canine Teeth and Why Are They Important?
Canine teeth, also called cuspids, are the pointed teeth located on either side of the upper and lower arches. They play a vital role in maintaining bite alignment, guiding jaw movement, and providing facial symmetry. Because they have the longest roots of any teeth, their proper positioning is critical to long-term dental health and stability.
Why Choose Dr. Hasan
Expertise
Dr. Hasan is a board-certified periodontist and dental implant specialist, with expertise in soft-tissue management and microsurgical techniques that deliver precise, natural-looking results.
Attentiveness
Every case is designed around you. Dr. Hasan treats one patient at a time to ensure undivided focus and exceptional outcomes. He remains accessible before, during, and after treatment.
Technology
Dr. Hasan’s practice features cutting-edge tools, including a Zeiss microscope, 3Shape scanner, and Green CT scan, for unparalleled accuracy and visualization.
Comfort
Dr. Hasan offers IV sedation for complete relaxation during treatment. Most patients report minimal discomfort and return to normal activity within a few days.
Impacted Canine FAQs
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What Causes Canine Impaction?
Impaction can occur due to overcrowding, retained baby teeth, or natural growth patterns that block eruption.
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Is The Procedure Painful?
No. Dr. Hasan uses local anesthesia or IV sedation to ensure complete comfort. Any post-treatment soreness is mild and temporary.
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How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most patients return to normal activities within one to two days. Full healing occurs as the orthodontic process continues.
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Will This Affect Orthodontic Treatment Time?
In fact, early exposure typically shortens overall treatment time by making it easier for your orthodontist to move the tooth into position.
Financing and Payment Options
Sculpt Center for Implants & Periodontics offers flexible payment options to make necessary care accessible:
- Accepted Payments: Personal checks, Visa®, Mastercard®, Discover®, and American Express®
- Financing Partners: CareCredit®, Cherry, LendingClub®, and Proceed Finance™ (zero down and interest-free options available)
- Insurance: Out-of-network, but we assist with reimbursement for qualifying plans
Discover a New Standard of Periodontal Care
Your child deserves care that combines advanced skill with a gentle touch. At Sculpt Center for Implants & Periodontics in McLean, Dr. Hasan provides precise, compassionate treatment that supports lifelong oral health and confidence.
Schedule your consultation at a time that works best for you and discover a truly different experience.
