Management of Impacted Primary Molar Obstructing Permanent Tooth Eruption in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Dec 10;16(12):e75480. doi: 10.7759/cureus.75480. eCollection 2024 Dec.

Abstract

Tooth impaction and eruption failure present common challenges in pediatric dentistry. We report a case of a 10-year-old boy of Indian origin presenting with a missing left mandibular primary second molar and impacted first permanent molar. Radiographic examination revealed an ankylosed primary molar obstructing the path of an unerupted premolar. Surgical extraction under local anesthesia was performed successfully, with postoperative management, including antibiotics and analgesics. Follow-up examinations demonstrated favorable outcomes, prompting referral to an orthodontist for further alignment. This case underscores the importance of timely intervention and interdisciplinary collaboration in managing dental impactions to ensure optimal dental health and development in pediatric patients.

Keywords: delayed eruption; impacted primary tooth; impacted tooth; primary molar; surgical extraction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports