Related Experiment Videos
The conservative approach to managing unerupted lower premolars -- two case reports
1Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Orthodontics, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, UK.
International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry
|May 20, 2003
Summary
Many unerupted premolars in adolescents may erupt naturally without intervention. Careful observation can guide treatment decisions for impacted teeth, potentially avoiding unnecessary dental procedures.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
Background:
- General dental practitioners often refer patients with unerupted premolars for specialist care.
- The prevalence of unerupted lower second premolars in 15-year-olds can be as high as 9.7%.
Observation:
- Two cases of unilateral unerupted premolars in unfavorable positions were reviewed.
- One case involved a lower left first premolar positioned along the mandibular border.
- The second case featured a horizontally impacted second premolar affecting adjacent molar roots.
Findings:
- Both unerupted premolars achieved excellent eruption positions after a period of observation without treatment.
- This suggests that spontaneous eruption is a viable outcome in select cases of impacted premolars.
Implications:
- The findings question the necessity and timing of interceptive treatments for unerupted premolars.
- A multidisciplinary approach involving orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and oral surgery is crucial for optimal treatment planning in complex cases.