Mandibular displaced canines: Presenting clinical challenges, alternatives, errors, and failures

Abstract

Mandibular canine impaction and/or transmigration are rare, but how to diagnose and manage these conditions is essential knowledge for every orthodontist. There are several treatment strategies for mandibular canine impaction: orthodontic traction, trans-alveolar transplantation or surgical removal. Orthodontic traction is probably the most complicated solution and requires adequate planning in terms of anchorage control, adequate mechanics and space management. It also requires patient cooperation due to the significant treatment time. This article provides a brief literature review to introduce the management of displaced and impacted mandibular canines and the orthodontic dilemma in their approach. A series of clinical cases are used to illustrate the challenges, possible alternatives, and potential errors and failures.