Maxillary Canine Impaction — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: D — Maxillary canine
The maxillary canine is the second most commonly impacted tooth (after third molars), with a prevalence of approximately 1-3% in the general population. Palatal impaction is more common (~85%) than labial impaction (~15%). Causes include arch length deficiency, ectopic tooth germ position, over-retention of primary canine, and absence/anomaly of the lateral incisor (which normally guides canine eruption). Early detection (age 9-10) and removal of the primary canine may allow spontaneous correction in some cases.
Reference: Proffit – Contemporary Orthodontics, 6th ed., 2019