Journal of Research and Advancement in Dentistry
Official publication of Magadh University and Kolhan University, Government of Bihar and Jharkhand, India
Official publication of Magadh University and Kolhan University, Government of Bihar and Jharkhand, India
Year : 2017
Volume : Volume 7
Issue : Issue 1
Address for correspondence :
Dr. Francis PG
pg.francis@hotmail.com
Background: Surgically assisted eruption is the preferred treatment for impacted canines. Exposing all canines by simple excision of the overlying tissue often makes the periodontium vulnerable to destruction. There are four techniques for exposing an impacted canine. They are (1) window exposure, (2) apically repositioned flap, (3) flap closed eruption technique and (4) tunnel traction. The choice of the technique depends primarily on the position of the impacted tooth. A case of palatally impacted canine successfully treated by surgically assisted eruption using tunnel traction technique is presented here. The teeth that required orthodontic de-rotation also had transection of the supraalveolar fibers to prevent rotational relapse. Tunnel traction is a unique technique that simulates physiologic eruption. The esthetic and periodontal outcomes are therefore better. A biomechanical explanation for the superior results achieved with tunnel traction technique is presented.
Keywords: Impacted maxillary canine, surgical exposure, surgically assisted eruption, tunnel traction, fibrotomy.
