Second Molar Replacement

A 24-year-old male patient presented with the absence of the mandibular left first molar (#36). The treatment plan involved mesial movement of the second molar (#37) to replace the missing #36. This case report describes the management of a patient with missing mandibular first molars, where the second molars were utilized as substitutes. During treatment, the alveolar ridge exhibited reduced buccolingual width and decreased vertical height. Following bone augmentation, the second molars were successfully mesialized. This case highlights the challenges of ridge atrophy and the efficacy of bone grafting in facilitating tooth movement for functional restoration. he mesial movement of the second molar (#37) to replace a missing first molar (#36) presents several challenges and risks, particularly in cases with alveolar ridge resorption. In cases of missing mandibular first molars (#36) with alveolar ridge resorption, bone augmentation followed by mesial movement of the second molar (#37) can be a viable treatment alternative to prosthetic replacement. However, this approach requires careful case selection, controlled biomechanics, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address challenges such as reduced bone volume, anchorage control, and periodontal stability.