• Journal of the korean academy of Pediatric Dentistry
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• v.40 no.1
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• pp.48-52
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• 2013

Ectopic eruption of the first permanent molar is an abnormal positioning of this tooth, causing a premature resorption of the distal surface of the second primary molar. It occurs in approximately 3~4% of the population and the maxillary arch is usually affected. While 66% of ectopically erupting permanent molars are corrected spontaneously without treatment (i.e. a reversible type), active treatment is necessary for irreversible ectopic eruption cases. The treatment modalities have been divided into two categories: interproximal wedging and distal tipping. Interproximal wedging is indicated for minimal impaction and when the impaction is severe, distal tipping techniques are required. Although much has been written about treatment modalities on unilateral ectopic eruption of the first permanent molar, few reports mention bilateral ectopic eruption cases. In this report, two cases of bilateral ectopic eruption of the first permanent molars in young patients are presented. We describe the use of a modified bilateral Halterman appliance for correction of these cases and the clinical results were satisfactory.