Extraoral extraction: a very rare surgical approach to tooth impaction. A case report

Extraoral route of access is usually not considered in surgical extraction of teeth because of technical difficulties and above all because of scar resulting from surgical skin wound healing. Some specific conditions, however, should suggest the use of this kind of access. A case of an impacted transmigrated right mandibular canine in an 18-year-old girl is reported. A CT examination has been carried out to evaluate the anatomy of the impacted toot as well as its relationship with the neighbouring structures. Extraoral surgical technique is then detaily described: skin incision, muscular dissection, ostectomy, tooth extraction and suture. Esthetical result was also reevaluated after 10 years. Advantages and drawbacks of intraoral and extraoral routes of access to mandibular tooth impaction are discussed and all anatomic and topographic factors related to the present impacted canine are examined. In conclusion, it is possible to confirm that extraoral access is indicated when a tooth is superficially impacted, in the molar-premolar region, toward the lingual aspect and near the lower border of the mandible.