Kissing molars

OBJECTIVES "Kissing molars" are impacted teeth that contact each other with occlusal surfaces in a single follicular space and with their roots pointing in opposite directions. In some cases you can see the molars "kissing" but the etiology of this phenomenon is still unknown. The aim of this article is to show the diagnosis of a rare case of kissing molars and discuss the etiology and treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS A case of kissing molars is presented. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Most commonly, this phenomenon involves the mandibular third and second molars; however, other teeth are known to be involved, such as a supernumerary mandibular third and fourth molar. The etiology of kissing molars is still unknown. According to some theories, an ectopic tooth germ would be responsible and the first cystic development around a molar could cause the crowns of the involved teeth to move; however, a role in cases of associated mucopolysaccharidosis or hyperplastic dental follicles has also been suggested. CONCLUSIONS The decision to extract asymptomatic kissing molars is controversial among oral surgeons. Various surgical complications may arise; on the other hand, in some cases surgery is unavoidable. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE This phenomenon may be a sign of various medical conditions that may require further investigation.