Intra osseous transmigration of mandibular canines – A report of two cases

Abstract

Background: A canine is classified as "transmigrated" when it crosses the midline. Transmigration of mandibular canines bilaterally is an extremely rare developmental dental ectopia with obscure etiology. Case Description:A 13 year old female and 10 year old male patient reported to the department with the chief complaint of missing teeth in the upper front teeth region and retained deciduous tooth in the lower front teeth region respectively. Panoramic radiographs revealed horizontally impacted permanent mandibular canines crossing the midline and located below the apices of the incisors. Based on the clinical, radiographic and CBCT findings, a diagnosis of transmigration of mandibular canines was established.Conclusion: Dental anomalies and pathologies such as cystic lesions, odontoma and root resorption of the adjacent teeth have been reported to be associated with transmigrated canines. Early diagnosis by radiographic evaluation and correction either by orthodontic intervention or by surgical transplantation is important to protect oral structures and preserve the canines to ensure facial harmony and improved function.