Uprighting of severely impacted mandibular second molars: a case report

Introduction: The incidence of mandibular first and second molar impaction is increasing but still recorded as rare. Treatment methods involving uprighting, extraction, or autologous tooth transplantation have been described. Aim: The present study describes the uprighting of 3 impacted mandibular second molars presenting with eruptive disorders. Methods: The application of limited and appropriate orthodontic therapy completed treatment in 11 months, 5 months, and 2 years and 3 months, respectively. Although no absolute anchorage in the form of miniscrews was required, no significant anchorage demands were considered necessary. Although the third molar tooth germs were identified and preserved in each case, no adverse influence on the uprighting of the second molars was encountered. Results: The favourable molar repositioning results were likely due to the youth of the 3 patients as the third molars were in early development and bone remodelling was marked. Furthermore, no problems related to anchorage or alveolar bone loss were identified after treatment. Conclusion: The results indicated the benefits of limited orthodontic treatment and early intervention for the uprighting of impacted mandibular second molars. (Aust Orthod J 2012; 28: 258-264)