Challenges and strategies in the surgical management of a buccally impacted canine: a case report

Authors

  • Victor Oliveira de Andrade Faculdade do Amazonas - IAES Author
  • Márcio Langbeck Castelo Branco Faculdade do Amazonas - IAES Author
  • Fernando dos Santos Gonçalves Junior Faculdade do Amazonas - IAES Author
  • Natália Stefany da Silva Pereira Faculdade do Amazonas - IAES Author
  • Alberto Tadeu do Nascimento Borges Faculdade do Amazonas - IAES Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70614/qmf3tg81

Keywords:

Impacted, Oral surgery, Tooth extraction, Dentistry, Tooth eruption

Abstract

Maxillary canines play a crucial role in mastication, mandibular guidance, and smile aesthetics. However, due to their complex eruptive path and the fact that they are among the last permanent teeth to emerge in the upper arch, they have a high predisposition to impaction, second only to third molars. This study aims to report a clinical case of surgical extraction of a maxillary canine impacted in the buccal region, discussing the surgical challenges, strategies adopted, and the relevance of individualized planning. A 27-year-old female patient presented with clinical absence of tooth 23 and mobility of the adjacent lateral incisor (22). Radiographic examination revealed an ectopic buccal impaction of the canine, in a horizontal position and overlapping the lateral incisor root. Considering the unfavorable position and the patient's refusal of orthodontic traction, extraction was chosen. The surgical procedure involved buccal access, osteotomy, root sectioning, and removal using controlled luxation techniques, followed by simple sutures and standard pharmacological protocol. Postoperative follow-up showed satisfactory tissue healing with no complications. This case highlights that accurate clinical and radiographic evaluation, combined with surgical expertise, is essential for the successful management of impacted teeth. It can be concluded that surgical removal of buccally impacted canines, when properly planned and conservatively executed, is an effective, safe, and predictable approach, emphasizing the importance of individualized treatment to preserve function, aesthetics, and periodontal health.

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Published

2026-02-20

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 2 (2025): Revista Clínica de Odontologia

Section

Relato de Caso

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