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Ectopic maxillary canine — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardOrthodonticsEctopic maxillary canineNDEB AFK

A 12-year-old has no palpable buccal canine bulge for tooth 1.3. The panoramic radiograph shows the canine crown overlapping the distal half of the lateral incisor root. The lateral incisor tests vital. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: A — Parallax radiographs or CBCT to localise the canine

A displaced maxillary canine overlapping the lateral incisor root needs localisation to assess position and resorption risk; parallax imaging or CBCT can be appropriate depending on diagnostic need. Bitewings do not localise an impacted canine adequately. The pearl is that early canine assessment reduces risk to lateral incisors and can change interceptive planning.

Reference: NDEB orthodontic reference texts; RCDSO radiograph prescribing guidance