[A case of bilateral impaction of the lower second molars]

A case of bilateral impaction of the lower second molars is presented. A 15-year-old boy with an ill feeling at the right lower first molar was referred to us. X-ray examination revealed bilateral impaction of the lower second molars and the presence of bilateral teeth that seemed to be the unerupted third molars distal to the impacted second molars. Furthermore, a radiolucency approximately 3 X 3 mm in size was detected in the mesioapical region of the right lower first molar. These impactions were managed under local anesthesia by extraction of the right lower first molar and fenestration of the right lower second molar. After approximately 4.5 months, the right lower third molar was extracted. It was further followed approximately 1 month later by extraction of the left lower third molar and ipsilateral fenestration of the lower second molar. As a result, the right lower second molar erupted but it was considerably inclined in a mesial direction. The left lower second molar erupted normally almost up to the occlusal plane. In the absence of systemic abnormality, facial trauma, and maldevelopment of the jaw, impaction seemed to have been closely associated with some unknown local factor.