I am 17 and lost my last primary tooth 4 months ago. it is a canine and my permanent tooth started to erupt but seems to have stalled. is this normal?

Late eruption: At your age this eruption pattern is later than normal. You should ask this question of a general dentist and an orthodontist who can personally examine you and along with x-rays and past history give you an answer to your question. They can also answer whether or not it's just a wait and watch situation or they actively have to treat you at this time in order to facilitate the eruption.

Yes: Your tooth is having trouble erupting because the space has closed up because the teeth on both sides are partially in the area that the canine needs to erupt into.An oral surgeon can surgically bring the canine into the space needed or if not an orthodontist needs to be consulted.