Association of vertical growth pattern with canine impactions in Dravidian subjects

Canine impaction, ectopic canines, canine transposition, canine transmigration, and agenesis are all caused by disturbances during development and eruption of the teeth. The position of the canines is of utmost importance, and they should be carefully inspected as they follow the longest path during eruption in the oral cavity and their shape and position play a major role in occlusal guidance. The prevalence of canine impaction may also be connected to the pattern of facial growth. The objective of this study was to analyze the association of vertical growth pattern and canine impaction in Dravidian population. The dental records were consulted for information. The patient information was gathered from the outpatient data records of patients who were treated with fixed orthodontic treatment at the private dental setup. Patients with canine impactions were shortlisted. Malocclusion, growth pattern, and type of impaction were recorded. The data obtained were tabulated and analyzed using statistical software. Out of 1385 subjects, 35 patients had impacted canines. Among 35 patients with impacted canines, 23 (65.71%) have a vertical growth pattern, 6 (17.14%) have an average growth pattern, and 6 (17.14%) have a horizontal growth pattern. According to the findings of this investigation, there was no gender-related difference in canine impaction. The canine impaction prevalence in Dravidian subjects was found to be 2.53%. Most of them with impacted canines had a vertical growth pattern.