Management of incomplete transposition of mandibular lateral incisor using removable appliances: Two case reports

The aim of this case report was to present treatment of two cases involving the incomplete transposition of a mandibular lateral incisor to a canine site using two different removable appliances. The two 8-year-old girls were referred to our clinic from a general dentist with a complaint of a malpositioned permanent mandibular lateral incisor. Based on the clinical and radiographic examination, a treatment plan was devised. The plan was to correct the transposition and the axial inclination and rotation of the lateral incisor with a removable appliance as the patient was in the mixed dentition stage. The appliances were constructed with 2 adams clasps and a modified vestibular arch on which a crimpable hook was welded. A button was attached to the lingual surfaces of the lateral incisors, and a 1/8 light elastics was placed between the button and crimpable hook in both two patients. The patients were evaluated every 2 weeks with an appointment. At the end of the treatment, the ectopically erupted lateral incisors were uprighted and aligned in their normal positions in the dental arch. In early mixed dentition period, if transposition is suspected, with early and correct diagnosis and with sufficient forethought a pediatric dentist may avoid the need for fixed orthodontic treatment.