Concurrent Impaction of the Mandibular Primary Second Molar and Second Premolar in Close Approximation to the Mental Nerve: A Case Report

Impacted teeth are those that fail to erupt at the typical age of eruption and remain enclosed in the maxilla or mandible, partially or completely surrounded by bone or soft tissues. Among these, third molars experience the highest incidence of impaction, with maxillary canines and mandibular bicuspids following closely. A 23 -year -old female presented to the orthodontics department, expressing concerns about spacing issues in her upper and lower front teeth. During the orthodontic planning process and radiological assessment, two impacted teeth, specifically one primary molar and one permanent premolar, were identified in close proximity to the mental nerve. Both teeth were subsequently extracted with success. This case report underscores the importance of a thorough preoperative radiographic evaluation of the mandibular canal and foramina. Additionally, it stresses the necessity for dissection to prevent unintended injury to the mental nerve during the extraction of the impacted mandibular premolar, which can result in paresthesia affecting the lower lip, mandibular labial gingiva, and chin.