The incidence of second molar impactions has not been adequately documented. Studies
that have specifically investigated second molar impactions have reported incidences ranging
from of 0.03% to 0.4%. In spite of this relatively low frequency in the general population,
it seems that second molar impaction is not an uncommon occurrence in the orthodontic
practice since the orthodontist is often the first to diagnose this condition in the adolescent
patient. As a result, the orthodontist needs to be both cognizant of this potential problem
and well equipped to handle the situation when it develops. The purpose of this article is to
present the case of a patient who needed comprehensive orthodontic treatment, including
rapid maxillary expansion and an uprighting of two impacted mandibular second molars
and an impacted maxillary left canine. World J Orthod 2003;4:145–151.
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