Incidental Finding of Rare Developmental Anomalies in Children: a Case Series

Abstract

  Dental developmental anomalies represent a family of variable conditions affecting tooth number, size, shape, position, and eruption. Often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, these anomalies pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for dental practitioners. This case series presents six unusual dental anomalies observed during routine orthodontic evaluations. Cases include a horizontally impacted mandibular second molar associated with a third molar germ; a malformed maxillary second molar blocking the eruption of a third molar; fusion of a maxillary lateral incisor with a supernumerary tooth; double permanent maxillary canine inclusion caused by a supernumerary tooth; trauma-induced circular enamel hypoplasia following primary tooth trauma, and a lingually displaced supernumerary mandibular premolar. The findings underscore the importance of routine radiographic evaluations for early detection and highlight the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to manage these anomalies effectively. This paper aims to enhance awareness and provide practical insights for dental practitioners in diagnosing and treating such rare conditions.