
Impacted
Canines
At Dr. Jenna D. Godwin Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we offer a full range of specialized services designed to meet your oral health needs. With a focus on precision, safety, and patient comfort, our practice combines cutting-edge technology with a compassionate approach to ensure the best outcomes for every patient.
Expert Surgical Care for Impacted Canine Teeth
Impacted Canines in Seminole, FL
When a canine tooth doesn’t erupt properly, it can create both functional and aesthetic issues, especially if left untreated. At Dr. Jenna D. Godwin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we specialize in diagnosing and treating impacted canine teeth, using advanced imaging, precise surgical techniques, and a compassionate approach.
Dr. Godwin is a board certified oral surgeon with military surgical training and decades of experience. Our team takes pride in helping patients feel relaxed and confident throughout their oral surgery procedure, whether the goal is to guide the tooth into place or remove it entirely. If you suspect a retained or blocked canine, schedule a consultation to learn your options.

What Is an Impacted Canine Tooth & Why Does It Happen?
An impacted canine is a tooth that fails to emerge fully into the dental arch. This often happens with upper canines—also known as cuspids—which play a critical role in your bite alignment, chewing function, and smile structure.
Common causes of canine impaction include:
- Overcrowded or misaligned teeth
- Genetics or developmental delays
- Baby teeth that haven’t fallen out on time
- Growths like cysts or supernumerary teeth
Early detection and treatment improve outcomes and reduce the need for more complex procedures later.
How Do I Know If I Have an Impacted Canine?
Symptoms of a blocked canine tooth or unerupted canine may include:
- A noticeable delay in the appearance of an adult tooth
- Swelling or discomfort in the gum
- Gaps or crowding between other teeth
- Visible signs of misalignment
Advanced imaging, such as 3D scans or digital X-rays will confirm the position of the retained canine and help guide the treatment plan.
Can an Impacted Canine Tooth Be Saved Without Removal?
In many cases, impacted canine teeth can be preserved. Surgical exposure combined with orthodontic traction is often used to guide the tooth into place. However, if the tooth is fused to the bone (a condition known as ankylosis) or is severely displaced, removal may be necessary.
Dr. Godwin will walk you through all available options and help you choose the approach that best preserves your oral health and smile.
How Are Retained Canine Teeth Treated?
Treating a canine tooth impaction begins with precise imaging and diagnosis. Once the tooth’s position is mapped, Dr. Godwin may recommend:
- 3D imaging to plan the exact surgical route
- Surgical exposure of the canine tooth under local anesthesia or IV sedation
- Coordination with your orthodontist to attach a bracket and apply gentle force
- Follow-up visits to monitor eruption progress
In cases where exposure isn’t possible or the tooth poses a risk to nearby structures, extraction may be recommended.
How Long Does It Take for an Impacted Canine to Come Down?
With proper canine eruption guidance, treatment may take several months to over a year, depending on how deeply the tooth is embedded and how well it responds to orthodontic traction.
What Happens If an Impacted Canine Isn’t Treated?
Delaying surgical treatment of an impacted canine or ectopically erupting tooth can result in complications, including:
- Formation of cysts or tumors in the jaw
- Damage to neighboring teeth and roots
- Crowding or shifting of other teeth
- Development of infections or ankylosed canine conditions
Prompt surgical intervention can help prevent more serious dental and skeletal issues in the future.
What Is the Recovery Like After Impacted Canine Surgery?
Most patients experience only mild soreness or swelling following canine exposure surgery. Recovery typically includes:
- Minor discomfort for 2–3 days
- Return to normal activities within a week
- Following Dr. Godwin’s post-operative care instructions for optimal healing
Our team provides detailed guidance and remains available to answer any recovery-related questions.
How Much Does Impacted Canine Treatment Cost in Seminole, FL?
The cost of impacted canine treatment varies based on the complexity of your case and whether orthodontic coordination or sedation is involved. We offer clear, upfront estimates after your consultation.
We work with many insurance providers and can help determine what portion of the procedure may be covered. Investing in care now helps avoid more costly complications later.
Why Choose Dr. Jenna Godwin for Impacted Canine Treatment?
Choosing Dr. Jenna D. Godwin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery means choosing:
- A board-certified oral surgeon and former U.S. Army Oral Surgery Residency Program Director
- Advanced surgical expertise with over a decade of experience
- A calm, professional atmosphere where patients feel genuinely cared for
- Local reputation built on results, empathy, and precision
Our Seminole, FL office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to deliver the highest level of care.
Schedule Your Impacted Canine Evaluation in Seminole Today!
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of a retained or impacted canine tooth, trust Dr. Jenna D. Godwin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Seminole, FL for advanced, compassionate care. Call our office or book online to schedule your impacted canine consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, aligned smile.


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