Orthosurgical treatment with lingual orthodontics of an infraoccluded maxillary first molar in an adult.

The biological mechanism that leads to a cessation in the normal passive eruption of a tooth is unclear, and there are differing views as to whether ankylosis is involved. When infraocclusion of a permanent molar occurs in the permanent dentition, its effects are seen (1) locally, with exaggerated tipping and relative under-eruption of the adjacent teeth; (2) regionally, with overeruption of the opposing tooth or teeth; and (3) farther afield, with deviation of the dental midline to the affected side. Treatment aimed at eliminating these adverse conditions is warranted, and this might involve the skills of both an orthodontist and an oral surgeon. When the condition occurs in an adult, the changes in facial appearance that will be caused by traditional fixed orthodontic appliances might undermine the patient's willingness to accept treatment. This report describes the successful orthosurgical treatment with lingual orthodontics of an infraoccluded maxillary first molar in an adult. The challenges, treatment alternatives, and technical refinements are emphasized.