Lana Abdulkarim Kamil(1)

D.r\ Mohammed Ejresh(2)

Abstract :

Background: Maxillary canine malposition (and subsequent impaction) is one of the most frequent challenges encountered in orthodontic and maxillofacial clinics. Because the maxillary canine has the longest period of development, the most deep-seated initial position, and a tortuous eruption pathway, it is highly susceptible to displacement. This study aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of canine malposition in patients. By identifying displacement trends, arch differences, and demographic distributions, this study seeks to establish regional baseline data to assist clinicians in early diagnosis, risk assessment, and preventive orthodontic management.

Methodology: A descriptive case series study was conducted at two Specialist Dental Centers in Hilla, Babylon, Iraq, to investigate the clinical characteristics and distribution of permanent canine malposition. Patients with erupted or unerupted permanent canines were randomly selected, while those with incomplete records, craniofacial syndromes, or previous orthodontic canine repositioning were excluded. Data were collected using a structured clinical examination form covering demographic characteristics, canine malposition features, and radiographic findings. Clinical examinations and panoramic radiographs (OPGs) were used for diagnosis and confirmation of impaction or ectopic eruption. The data collection form was validated by experts, and standardized procedures ensured diagnostic reliability. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained, and participant confidentiality was maintained. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Chi-square test applied; statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results: A total of 50 patients were evaluated to assess clinical and psychosocial aspects of permanent canine malposition. Buccally displaced canines were significantly associated with reduced self-confidence compared to palatal displacement (p < 0.05). Gender was also significantly related to the affected dental arch (p = 0.040), with females showing a higher frequency of maxillary involvement. Another significant correlation was found between displacement direction and self-confidence impairment (p = 0.047), highlighting a greater psychosocial impact in buccal malposition cases. In contrast, no significant association was observed between retained primary canines and displacement direction (p = 0.377). Cramer’s V analysis indicated weak-to-moderate but significant associations for gender vs. arch (V = 0.290) and displacement vs. self-confidence (V = 0.281), while retained primary canines showed a weak, non-significant relationship with displacement (V = 0.125).

Conclusion:  The present study ,Conducted that permanent canine malposition has both clinical and psychosocial effects. Buccal displacement was significantly associated with lower self-confidence compared to palatal displacement. A significant relationship was also found between gender and the affected dental arch, with females showing more maxillary involvement. In addition, displacement direction significantly affected self-confidence, indicating a greater psychological impact in buccal cases. However, no significant association was found between retained primary canines and displacement direction. Overall, significant but weak-to-moderate correlations were observed for gender with dental arch and displacement with self-confidence, while retained primary canines showed a weak, non-significant relationship.