Mirror image: an unusual case of prolonged tooth retention in twins.

Abstract

Introduction: Studies of twins are important because environmental and genetic factors seem to be related to the phenotypic alterations. Objective: This paper presents a unique case of monozygotic twins with mirror image of a retained primary central incisor. Case report: Twin male brothers, 9-years-old, presented prolonged retention of the primary central upper incisor. The over-retained teeth in one twin were a mirror image of those in the other twin. The first twin presented a prolonged retention of the tooth 51 whereas the other twin presented a prolonged retention of tooth 61. After radiographic exams the over-retained teeth were extracted. Conclusion: Twins may show similarity in pattern of dental anomalies supporting the influence of genetic factors. In identical twins the location of diagnosed anomalies can be mirror imaged. This fact should lead the professional to examine the pair of twins in order to diagnose any dental anomaly that may be present.