Title: Canine conundrums: A collaborative approach to the management of ectopic canines
Abstract:
Introduction: Ectopic canines, with an incidence of 1.7% (Ericson and Kurol, 1986), present a common diagnostic and therapeutic challenge that requires the collaborative expertise of orthodontics, oral surgery, and special care dentistry. Unilateral ectopic canines are more common, with only 0.3% being in the mandible. 84% are palatal (Peck et al. 1994) which can pose a multitude of surgical difficulties, complicated further by complex medical histories. This presentation will delve into the aetiology of ectopic canine, clinical and radiographic findings to aid diagnosis, the various treatment options and their potential complications as well as highlighting the importance of patient factors.
Summary of cases: This presentation reviews a series of cases involving ectopic canines, including medically complex patients, cases with unfavourable canine positioning precluding alignment, cases with associated pathology, and instances of canine transposition. The focus is placed on the critical role of a multidisciplinary approach in evaluating patient-specific factors, assessing surgical risks, and determining appropriate treatment options. Advances in diagnostic imaging, particularly the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), are also discussed regarding their influence on diagnosis and treatment planning. Additionally, criteria for prognostic assessment of ectopic canines are examined to guide clinical decision-making with reference to national guidance and scientific literature.
Conclusion: As this case series will demonstrate, ectopic canines often present a complex clinical conundrum, challenging practitioners with their variable presentation and potential impact on function and aesthetics. Effective management requires careful diagnostic assessment and a coordinated, multidisciplinary treatment approach. Such collaboration not only facilitates the delivery of gold-standard clinical outcomes but also ensures a holistic, patient-centred model of care that addresses both the clinical and psychosocial needs of each individual.
