Management of the nonerupted maxillary anterior tooth

The noneruption of maxillary anterior teeth, particularly the canine, is a common problem. The cause of the noneruption is multifactorial but almost always involves a lack of space. The literature presents an active and a passive form of orthodontic treatment and has recently stressed the periodontal management of these teeth. Two cases are presented. In both cases the orthodontic techniques of regaining space and providing traction on the unerupted tooth are described. A free gingival graft is used in one case and an apically repositioned flap in the other to achieve a healthy periodontium. The advantages and disadvantages of the techniques used as well as their rationale are discussed.