Management of Multiple Infraoccluded Primary Molars Without Permanent Successors: A Case Report

Abstract

The infraocclusion usually occurs in the mixed-dentition stage, and it is commonly accepted that the cause of the infraocclusion is ankylosis. The treatment options for patient with infraocclusion of primary molars are observation, restoration or surgical removal of the affected teeth. If the successors are present, most of the infraoccluded and ankylosed primary molars may occur normally. However, when the permanent successors are absent and the progression of infraocclusion is found, affected teeth may need to be extracted. In the case of infraocclusion which can cause vertical alveolar defect due to ankylosis, extraction before growth spurt should be performed for the future prosthetic treatment.A six-year-old female had the ankylosis and infraocclusion of multiple primary molars and congenital missing of premolars. The affected primary molars were extracted before growth spurt to avoid a significant vertical ridge defect and to promote the vertical development of alveolar bone, and the result was observed for many years. The purpose of this report is to report the management of multiple infraoccluded primary molars without permanent successors in a young patient.