Eruptive malpositioning of the mandibular permanent lateral incisors: three case reports

Ectopic eruption of the mandibular permanent lateral incisors involving the loss of the adjacent primary canines is not uncommon, yet the extreme distalization and transposition of such teeth (partial or true) has been reported infrequently. Three cases that illustrate various anomalous eruption-exfoliation patterns are presented. Theories that attempt to explain the etiology of anomalous eruption positions are discussed. However, the multifactorial process of growth and development makes it difficult to identify specific primary etiological factors. Treatment options also are discussed and illustrated, with emphasis on early orthodontic intervention for optimal results.