Diagnostic and treatment for lack of space of upper permanent lateral incisors in children: a case report

ABSTRACT Dental professionals caring for children play a crucial role in identifying dental and occlusal anomalies. They monitor the development of dentition and diagnose eruption deviations. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, if necessary, to ensure optimal outcomes. This case report described how interceptive orthodontics successfully erupted permanent lateral incisors lacking sufficient space. A 7-year-old patient, accompanied by her parents, presented with concerns regarding the delayed eruption of her upper permanent lateral incisors. Clinical examination revealed a right posterior crossbite, an ogival palate, and a lack of space for teeth 12 and 22. Additionally, the patient exhibited mouth breathing, a nasal voice, and an inability to achieve a lip seal. To address the transverse maxillary discrepancy, rapid maxillary expansion was performed using the Hyrax appliance. After three months of treatment, the lateral incisors began erupting. By the six-month mark, the teeth were successfully positioned, and the appliance was removed. Timely diagnosis of insufficient space for upper permanent lateral incisor eruption proved essential for successful, quick, and satisfactory intervention with interceptive orthodontics.