Ectopic eruption and the impaction of upper canines are problems quite commonly presented by the population. An excellent orthodontic treatment encompasses occlusal correction, smile harmony, periodontal health and posttreatment stability. Such conditions can be obtained upon the due maintenance of the canines, therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the radiographic localization of non-erupted upper canines using panoramic radiographs. In this study, seventy panoramic radiographs of patients presented with uni or bilateral canine impaction, applying for surgical treatment, were selected. Methods described in the literature and an evaluation proposed in this work were chosen to determine the spatial position for non-erupted upper canines. The localization of non-erupted canines is fundamental to establish the treatment plan, aiding in the surgical access and in the direction of orthodontic forces to be applied on the impacted tooth. The patients whose radiographs were utilized in this study will be treated at the Orthodontics and Surgery Departments, by means of surgeries for canine exodontics or surgical exposure for the bonding of a wire traction device, associated with corrective orthodontic treatment.
Tooth impaction; Panoramic radiography; Radiographic location technique
