Management of the fused permanent upper lateral incisor: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Fusion is the embryologic union of normally discrete structures. The treatment of this anomaly usually requires a multidisciplinary approach. Cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) is more common in dentistry and provides valuable information on fused teeth, allowing us to confirm its 3-dimensional structure and precise 3-dimensional cutting-plane line, which is very important to prevent pulp exposure in the conserved tooth.

STUDY

DESIGN

An 8-year-old boy presented with a permanent maxillary left lateral incisor fused with a supernumerary tooth. Hemisection was delayed until the pulp chamber separated. We used CBCT to decide the separation time and a precise 3-dimensional cutting plane line to avoid pulp exposure. The abnormally positioned lateral incisor and canine biologically moved to normal positions without orthodontic treatment.

RESULTS

At 1-year follow-up, there was no esthetic problem, hypersensitivity, periapical pathosis, or external resorption.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemisection could be selected as an appropriate treatment alternative and more recommended procedure in cases where a permanent tooth is fused with a supernumerary tooth.