J Korean Assoc Oral Maxillofac Surg.  2023 Apr;49(2):86-90. 10.5125/jkaoms.2023.49.2.86.

Management of rare ectopic teeth eruption: case series

• James O
• Suleiman IK
• Ahmad MM
• Olasoji HO

• KMID: 2542214
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5125/jkaoms.2023.49.2.86

Abstract

Objectives
An ectopic tooth is a rare eruption of a tooth out of the normal dental apparatus and occurs commonly with the third molar. Thus, in this study, we reported a case series of ectopic teeth in rare jaw locations and highlight the associated pathology and our experience in the surgical management.
Patients and Methods
All cases of ectopic tooth managed at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital from January 2011 to December 2020 were reviewed. The information retrieved includes biodata, location of the ectopic tooth, signs, symptoms, type of tooth and associated pathology, surgical approach and complications.
Results
Ten cases of ectopic teeth were identified over the study period. This comprised 80.0% males with a mean age was 23.3 years. The antrum and lower border of the mandible accounted for 50.0% and 40.0% of the ectopic locations, respectively. Dentigerous cyst was the most associated pathology (70%) and usually presented with pain and swelling. Surgical intervention predominantly via the intraoral route was performed if indicated.
Conclusion
Ectopic teeth are rare and not always associated with pathology. A high index of suspicion and radiological investigation are necessary for diagnosis. A more extensive multi-center study is however recommended to determine the prevalence of ectopic teeth other than the third molar.

Keyword

Ectopic tooth eruption; Dentigerous cyst; Maxillary sinus; Odontogenic tumor; Impacted tooth

Figure

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  Fig. 1 An ectopic right mandibular molar in the lower border of the mandible.

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  Fig. 2 Ectopic molar at the sigmoid notch. The tooth was removed via a retromandibular approach and the diagnosis of a dentigerous cyst was made histologically.

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  Fig. 3 A. A premolar tooth attached to the lower border of the mandible with an incompletely formed root. B. Intraoperative picture showing the relationship of the premolar crown to the lower body of the mandible.

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  Fig. 4 A. Cyst cavity with left maxillary canine and obstruction of the nasal cavity posteriorly. B. Canine tooth with associated cystic lining.

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  Fig. 5 Asymptomatic ectopic canine in the lower border of the mandible. No associated pathology.

Reference

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