Updates On the Management Strategies for Retained Teeth

Tooth eruption is the final step of a complex sequence of genetically regulated events. Any disruption in this process can lead to dental impaction, one of the most challenging conditions in clinical dentistry. Dental impaction is not limited to third molars; it can affect any tooth and significantly impact oral function, aesthetics, and long-term prognosis. Understanding the etiopathogenesis, diagnostic parameters, and available surgical strategies is essential for optimal treatment outcomes. This review aims to examine the current concepts in the diagnosis and surgical-orthodontic management of impacted teeth, excluding third molars, highlighting evidence-based clinical approaches, innovations in minimally invasive techniques, and the role of soft tissue management and digital technologies in improving therapeutic outcomes.