Uprighting an impacted permanent mandibular first molar associated with a dentigerous cyst and a missing second mandibular molar — A case report

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present a case of an impacted mandibular first molar associated with a dentigerous cyst and a missing mandibular second molar in an 11-year-old girl that was treated with combined surgical and orthodontic procedures. After clinical and radiographic evaluation, marsupialization of the cyst was decided, and a molar attachment was bonded on the buccal side of the impacted molar as a part of a full orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. After 18 months of orthodontic traction, the molar was moved to a more advantageous position, and new bone apposition was observed on the site of the cystic lesion. Histological examination confirmed a dentigerous cyst. The molar was left to erupt spontaneously for 14 more months. A functional occlusion was finally achieved. An interdisciplinary approach proved to be an effective modality in treating a large dentigerous cyst associated with a deeply impacted first mandibular molar, presenting many advantages, such as new bone apposition and patient comfort.