Transmigration of Permanent Canines in South Indian population – A Radiographic Prevalence Study

Aim: To evaluate the total prevalence of transmigrated mandibular permanent canines seen among the South Indian population using panoramic radiographs. Methods: A retrospective collection of panoramic radiographs of 425 patients from 2022 to 2023 was done. The age of the patients ranged from 15 to 35 years. There were 209 males and 216 females. The criteria for diagnosing transmigrated canine as given in the literature was used to rule out the presence of transmigrated canine. The data obtained was tabulated, and descriptive statistical analysis was performed to estimate the total prevalence. Results: Among the total of 425 radiographs of the patients evaluated, transmigrated permanent mandibular canines were detected in 8 patients (8/425), showing a 1.88% prevalence. 2.31% of females were affected with transmigration of canines compared to males, having 1.43%. When laterality affected with canine transmigration was estimated, about 75% were detected on the left side, with 25% found on the right. No bilateral presentation of transmigration was observed. Conclusions: 1.88% of Indian patients exhibited transmigrated canines. Although the frequency of its occurrence is low, dental practitioners should be aware of its existence among the Indian ethnic population to reach at early diagnosis, to render appropriate treatment, and also to avoid complications arising from untreated or undiagnosed transmigrated canines.