Interceptive orthodontic management of mandibular lateral incisor-canine transposition using simplified and efficient...

Ectopic eruption anomaly, manifesting as tooth transposition, often presents a complex therapeutic challenge. Mandibular lateral incisor- canine transposition, although observed with rarity, tends to have major impact on development of proper dentition and adversely influence physical, nutritional, aesthetic and overall psychosocial well being of the patient. This report chronicles individualized one-phase orthodontic management of the case of incomplete transposition between mandibular right lateral incisor and canine in a 9-year-old boy during mixed dentition period.

Interceptive orthodontic treatment was initiated with placement of 2×4 fixed appliance in lower arch. A combination of continuous arch wire technique involving the use of improved superelastic nickel-titanium wire in conjunction with TMA rectangular wire loop was utilized to achieve biomechanically efficient mesial movement of mandibular lateral incisor. Treatment continued with sequential bonding of brackets to the rest of the mandibular dentition until the levelling and alignment of the buccal segment dentition was achieved.

Well-timed early interceptive treatment involving simplified and controlled movements helped reinstate tooth order, promote free eruption of buccal segment teeth, reduce anchorage burden and achieve predictable and biologically compatible outcome without the use of lingual arch as an additional source of reinforcing anchorage.

From an aesthetic, occlusal and functional standpoint, the treatment approach used in the reported case and the therapeutic outcome proved to be highly satisfactory. By optimizing the eruption and alignment patterns of the permanent teeth, preadolescent interceptive orthodontic treatment helps mitigate the burden of malocclusion and risks of complex orthodontic treatment in permanent dentition.