The oral surgery/orthodontic interface: 1. Ectopically positioned teeth

The number of patients seeking orthodontic treatment has increased over the last decade. A proportion of these patients present with minor irregularities due to the so-called 'local causes' of malocclusion, many of which require surgical treatment. Some general dental practitioners have taken up the challenge of correcting these causes and the resulting malocclusion themselves; however, all practitioners must be aware of the treatment options available and the surgical and orthodontic considerations to be taken into account. This will allow informed discussion with patients. In this, the first of two papers, the management of ectopically positioned teeth is discussed.