Literature Review

Surgical uprighting of impacted mandibular second molar: a narrative review

¹ General Dentist, Private Practice, WA, USA
² Department of Molecular Bioscience, Bellevue College, WA, USA
³ First year Orthodontic resident, Georgia School of Orthodontics, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
⁴ Ministry of Bahrain, Bahrain
⁵ Rush Orthodontics and Craniofacial Center, Rush University Medical Center, IL, USA

^* Correspondence: soumya_Padala@rush.edu

Received: 15 October 2020
Accepted: 25 November 2020

Abstract

Early diagnosis of impacted mandibular second molar (MM2) is critical since treatment at a later stage can be complicated. It often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Surgical uprighting of impacted MM2 appears to be a safe, effective, and a reliable alternative to conventional orthodontic mechanics with minimal risk of morbidity or pulpo-periodontal problems. Timely diagnosis is critical and factors affecting treatment outcomes must be assessed for a successful outcome. Although surgical uprighting or repositioning is the most commonly prescribed option for MM2 management, there isn't a review of literature that discusses the etiology, assessment, and surgical management of impacted MM2 with an emphasis on surgical uprighting technique and comparing various factors that affect the outcome.