Ectopia or concomitant hypohyperdontia? A case report.

This report describes the unusual appearance seen on a panoramic radiograph of an orthodontic patient which the authors argue may represent ectopia or concomitant hypohyperdontia of the mandibular premolar teeth. A literature review describes the frequency of such anomalies in this area from previous studies. The presenting features of the patient and the differential diagnoses are explored. Treatment planning is discussed and treatment carried out in this particular case is detailed. The unusual symmetrical bilateral anomalies in this patient may point to a genetic determinant of tooth germ position and/or movement.