[Localization of impacted maxillary canines by palpation and orthopantomography].

In orthodontic practice occurred problems associated with labio-palatal localization of impacted permanent maxillary canines. Not always is possible to determinate labio-palatal location of these teeth on the basis of palpation, therefore clinical examination aided by radiographic investigation. Orthopantomogram is the most widely used radiograph in orthodontics. The purpose of present study-test diagnostic value of palpation and orthopantomography in cases of maxillary canines impaction on the basis of evaluation of migration and inclination of impacted teeth. Thirty nine patients of Clinic of Orthodontics, Kaunas University of Medicine, orthopantomograms were available for analysis. Forty two impacted canines were investigated. Only 64% of canines could be palpated. It depended on the vertical position of the tooth. Distribution of the values of canine inclination to the middle of upper jaw was too big for more precise statistical analysis. Canines, which were medial to the 3th horizontal sector (these canines overlapped longitudinal axis of the lateral incisor), were located palatally.