Abstract

Aim: To present a case successful eruption of permanent canine following secondary alveolar bone grafting in a patient with alveolar cleft. Background: Secondary alveolar bone grafting is performed preferably when the permanent canine is unerupted as the newly grafted bone behaves as alveolar bone and allow for spontaneous movement of the adjacent canine towards the alveolar ridge. If the canine doesn’t erupt spontaneously, it can be migrated with the help of orthodontic traction. Case Description: An 11 years’ female patient with unilateral cleft lip and palate on left side was treated for cleft alveolus and persistent palatal fistula. Secondary alveolar bone grafting was done using anterior iliac crest graft. One month postoperatively, it was noticed that the tip of permanent canine was visible through the grafted bone and the crown was almost visible in the oral cavity after three months postoperatively. Conclusion: The present case demonstrated the successful eruption of canine following a standardized alveolar bone grafting technique concluding that autogenous grafting aids in canine eruption. It is always better to go for an autogenous bone grafting despite associated morbidity, as it helps in canine eruption and further potential for future implant placement.

Authors and Affiliations