A Retrospective Clinical Investigation of Delayed Eruption of Premolars in the Mandible

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the treatment options for the delayed eruption of mandibular premolars and identify the predictors of spontaneous eruption using panoramic radiography. The prevalence of delayed mandibular premolar eruption in this retrospective analysis, comprising 254 patients (aged 9 - 15 years), was 5.19%, with no significant difference based on gender. The mandibular second premolars were most affected (4.39%) compared to the first premolars (0.76%). No significant difference in prevalence was observed between the left and right sides. Among the treated mandibular premolars, primary molar-related lesions were identified as the leading cause (7.85%) of delayed tooth eruption. The treatment duration varied based on the Nolla stage, eruption stage, and treatment method. Teeth with Nolla stage 7 or lower had a treatment duration of 22.89 ± 11.96 months, whereas those with stage 8 or higher had a 15.02 ± 6.34 month duration. The deeper the tooth was located in the bone, the longer the treatment period became. The treatment duration varied depending on the treatment method, and statistically, there was no significant difference. The treatment durations for affected mandibular premolars increased with the depth of impaction angle of inclination. In this study, the treatment duration for delayed eruptions varied depending on the Nolla stage, eruption stage, and treatment method. Variations in the impaction depth and inclination angle across various treatment approaches, as explored in this study, might offer valuable insights into the selection of the most suitable management options for delayed tooth eruptions.