Does a Child’s Fang Tooth Need to Be Treated to Avoid Affecting Appearance?

Question

Dear doctor, regarding the fang tooth of a child in a friend’s family, does it need to be treated? How should one avoid affecting the teeth in this situation?

Answer

Firstly, fang teeth play an important role in supporting the corners of the mouth, not only having a significant impact on aesthetics but also having the longest roots among teeth. As age grows, this tooth can have a decisive effect on future dentures. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to extract it. However, fang teeth may affect the growth of teeth on both sides. If the teeth on both sides have not yet been replaced, for aesthetic reasons, it is suggested to extract the fang tooth. If not treated, the fang tooth will only affect the overall aesthetics of the teeth and have no direct impact on dental and physical health.