Sir, a 23-year-old gentleman was referred to the restorative department of a dental hospital regarding localised recession in the lower labial segment. The patient provided consent for publication. The patient was concerned about the appearance of the lower left lateral incisor and was also noting sensitivity to cold. A detailed history revealed that the patient had previous upper and lower fixed orthodontic treatment on a non-extraction basis whilst living abroad ten years previously. He had bonded retainers in the upper and lower anterior segments.

The patient was made aware that the prognosis of the two teeth was likely to be poor but unpredictable. It was explained that due to the torque discrepancy of these teeth, with the roots positioned outside the cortical bone, gingival augmentation alone would be insufficient. It was proposed that a period of orthodontic fixed appliances would be required to correct the torque and apical positions of these teeth followed by gingival surgery. An alternative treatment option discussed was to have the teeth extracted and replaced prosthodontically.

Log in or create a free account to read this content

Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com

Access through your institution

or

Sign in or create an account
Continue with Google
Continue with ORCiD