Dentoalveolar Segmental Osteotomy Combined with Orthodontic Treatment for an Impacted and Ankylosed Upper Canine: A Case Report

Abstract

Ankylosis is the abnormal adhesion of alveolar bone to dentin or cementum and commonly seen after traumatic dental injuries. Treatment of impacted and ankylosed teeth solely by orthodontics alignment may be challenging. Consequently, several treatment alternatives have been proposed for the management of ankylosed teeth involving extraction, surgical luxation, and osteotomy followed by dentoalveolar distraction or conventional orthodontic treatment. This case report describes a 55-year-old female who was referred by her orthodontist due to an impacted and ankylosed maxillary upper left canine. A dentoalveolar segmental osteotomy with immediate repositioning of an upper canine was performed. One year after final orthodontic treatment a satisfying occlusal and esthetic treatment outcome was obtained.