The findings of impacted and transmigrated maxillary and mandibular canines: a retrospective cone beam computed tomography study.

Background: The aim of this study was to examine and evaluate the maxillary and mandibular impacted and transmigrant canines, their relationship with neighboring tissues and pathology with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods: CBCT data of 217 patients, between January 2018 and December 2019, with a total of 293 impacted canines were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical records were also evaluated. Maxillary or mandibular localization, angulations, transmigration, lateral and premolar tooth resorption, apical dilacerations, pathological formations, presence of persistent deciduous canines and treatment methods were investigated.

Results: For 293 impacted canines, 237 were in the maxilla and 56 in the mandible, with this difference being statistically significant (P<0.05). Among the 293 impacted canines, 14 (4.8%) transmigrated canines were detected. From the 14 transmigrant canines, 13 were in the mandible and 1 was in the maxilla. This difference was found statistically significant (P<0.05). Eighteen dentigerous cysts (10 maxilla, 8 mandible) and 4 odontomas (3 maxilla, 1 mandible) were found in impacted canines. For a total of 293 impacted canines, 57 were extracted, 13 were referred to orthodontics and a follow-up decision was made for 223 teeth.

Conclusions: Transmigration incidence is statistically significant, on a higher area of the lower jaw, compared to the upper jaw (P<0.05). In patients with impacted canines, taking CBCT together with a detailed clinical examination is effective in correct treatment planning and in minimizing complications that may occur during surgical extraction.