The sacrosanct canine: Considerations for the extraction of severely displaced, or impacted maxillary canine(s)

Objective: The maxillary canines have long been considered critical for dental function and aesthetics, with traditional practice prioritizing their preservation and alignment. However, this view often stems from outdated teachings rather than evidence-based principles, since there is no scientific support for the concept of canine-protected occlusion. Therefore, this commentary paper provides justification for extraction of severely impacted maxillary canines with first premolar substitution. Results: In cases of severely impacted maxillary canines, orthodontic alignment may be associated with higher morbidity, unpredictable outcomes, prolonged treatment times, and increased patient burden. As an alternative, extracting the impacted canines and substituting the first premolars offers a viable, efficient solution that can achieve functional and aesthetic outcomes with fewer complications. Conclusion: This paper challenges traditional perspectives on the management of impacted canines, advocating for an evidence-based approach that prioritizes patient-centered care.