Bilateral Fusion of the Mandibular Primary Incisors with Hypodontia: A Case Report

Fusion is a condition in which the crowns of two separate teeth have been joined together during the crown development. Although, its etiology is not known, it is believed that some physical forces or pressures cause the contact of developing teeth. Bilateral mandibular fusion of the primary incisors is a rare event, occurring with a prevalence of 0.01 to 0.04 percent. Fusion may cause esthetic and space problems, occlusal disturbances, and delayed eruption of permanent successors. The aim of this article is to highlight the rarity of occurrence of bilaterally fused mandibular primary central and lateral incisors; to identify congenital absence of successor teeth; and to discuss different treatment modalities in cases of fusion. An unusual case of bilateral fusion of primary mandibular incisors in a six-year-old boy is reported in this article. Clinical observation along with radiographic evaluation was used to arrive at diagnosis. Bilateral fusion of primary mandibular central and lateral incisors of incomplete type with congenital absence of left permanent mandibular central incisor is diagnosed. The rarity of absence of a single permanent central incisor makes the case further interesting.