Diode Laser Surgery for the Disinclusion of Palatally Impacted Canines: A Case Report

Abstract

AIM: Mandibular third molars are the most frequently impacted teeth, followed by maxillary canines. Between one and three percent of the general population is affected by permanent maxillary canine impaction; in males, this condition is less common than in females. This case report evaluates the spontaneous eruption of palatally impacted canines following diode laser exposure.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 15-year-old female referred to our observation to improve her smile. At the first visit, the absence of upper left permanent canines and the persistence of upper right primary canines were detected. Meticulous surgical exposure with a diode laser was planned based on the cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The wound was covered with a periodontal pack, and the traction of the teeth in the dental arch was achieved without the need for orthodontic devices. The canines' eruption was tracked at 1, 8 and 16 weeks following surgery, using an intraoral scanner (Medit i700, Medit Corp., Seoul, South Korea) and photos.

RESULTS: Both canines completely erupted 16 weeks after surgery, so brackets were placed on them, and self-ligating multibrackets were used to bandage the upper arch.

CONCLUSIONS: Laser surgery for impacted canines is an excellent conservative option for their exposure; compared to standard surgery, it offers several advantages, including faster eruption, no need for sutures, and no bleeding during or after the operation.