Aim: Was to collect epidemiological data regarding impacted maxillary canines (IMC) in Slovenian population and to evaluate if a correlation between age and severity of canine displacement exists.

Materials and methods: Data from 35 patients (21 girls, 14 boys) with IMC was collected. Their dental casts and radiographic images were included in the study.

Two age groups were formed: up to 13 years and older than 13 years. The position of IMC as well as the presence of deciduous canines were recordedental. Space conditions and angle classification were registered from study casts. From panoramic X-ray images canine angulation to the midline was measured using the method by Stivarossa and Mandalla.

Results: Mean age at the start of treatment was 15.4 years. 20 patients (57%) were older than 13 years. Both canines were impacted in 5 patients (14%). Palatal impaction was present in 28 patients (80%) and buccal in 7 patients (20%). 22 patients (63%) still had deciduous canines. Class II was found in 46%. Crowding of >4 mm was found to be correlated with buccal impaction. Angulation to the midline exceeded 15° significantly more frequently in patients over 13 years of age. The majority of patients start treatment of IMC too late, the deciduous canines are still present. Early intervention is vital because IMC tend to shift mesially in time, further complicating treatment and inducing root resorptions of adjacent teeth.

Conflict of interest: None declared.