Redirection of palatally ectopic maxillary canines: Case report and proposition of an interceptive sequential guideline

Abstract

The eruptive deviation of the permanent maxillary canine must be identified early, at the beginning of the second transitional period of the mixed dentition. Acting at this moment is fundamental for its spontaneous redirection and eruption. The aim of the paper is to present a case where the extraction of the deciduous canines was the choice for redirecting the maxillary permanent canines with eruptive palatal deviation, as well as to suggest a sequence of procedures for diagnosis and choice of treatment. The success of deciduous canine extraction in redirecting the ectopic permanent canines is discussed in this case, as well as aspects that might lead to failure. Still, it highlights the importance of computed tomography for choosing conservative treatment or traction, including it in the sequential guideline for acting in these cases.