Abstract

NYIRENDA, T et al. Bilateral ectopic eruption of permanent maxillary canines into the incisive fossa, evaluated using Micro Focus X-ray Computed Tomography: A Case study and brief literature review. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2018, vol.73, n.3, pp.157-159. ISSN 0375-1562.

Tooth development is a complex process whereby various genetic and environmental variables interact to achieve the final morphology and destination. Disruptions in the process lead to impaction and or ectopic eruption. Bilateral ectopic eruption of maxillary canine teeth into the incisive fossa is a rare phenomenon. This report describes bilateral permanent maxillary canine teeth erupting into the incisive fossa of the skull of an adult male African. The skull specimen was first examined physically, followed by Micro Focus X-ray Computed Tomography μCT) to determine the morphology and trajectory of the impacted and ectopically erupting teeth. Physical examination of the skull revealed a portion of the right maxillary canine tooth in the incisive fossa. μCT revealed the presence of right and left permanent maxillary canines within the palatine bone with cusps projecting into the incisive fossa. Both teeth were mature with well-developed root, root canal and crowns with distinct cusps. The root of the right impacted canine tooth was deflected at its apex. Tooth impaction is caused by mechanical disturbance in the path of the developing tooth. This information is vital to practicing maxillofacial surgeons during interpretation of the radiographs and surgical correction of disorders of the oral cavity.

Keywords : Bilateral ectopic eruption; maxillary canines; incisive foramen; Microfocus Computed Tomography.

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