Abstract
Introduction: Hypodontia refers to the congenital absence of less than six teeth. This absence may be unilateral or bilateral. Though the congenital agenesis of bilateral mandibular/maxillary incisors has often been reported in literature, however, the congenital absence of bilateral mandibular and maxillary incisors, as well as the mandibular second molar-giving rise to a total of six missing permanent teeth in an apparently healthy individual has not been reported earlier.
Case presentation: This case series presents two cases of a 10- and 11-year-old children with presence of retained deciduous anterior in both arches with absence of permanent successors and also aims to review the literature regarding etiology, clinical implications and management in such cases.
Conclusions: It is essential that practitioners monitor the developing dentition with establishment of a proper review schedule. Non-eruption of the permanent tooth more than one year later than expected, or even after six months following the emergence of the contralateral tooth, warrants a high degree of suspicion. A multidisciplinary team, including pediatric, restorative and orthodontic specialists, is advised. In addition, prior to formulation of any treatment plan, due consideration to the general issues such as the patient’s systemic and oral health, motivation and expectations should be given.