The transition from baby teeth (primary teeth) to permanent teeth is an important part of growing up. Marked by some anxiety and steeped in tradition, i.e. the Tooth Fairy, the process is not always a smooth one. In rare cases, a tooth might not appear (erupt).

The failure of a tooth to erupt may be caused by the root of the tooth fusing to the bone of the jaw -- in essence, anchoring the permanent tooth down. This typically occurs with the mandibular molars or in anterior (back) teeth when the child has experienced some form of mouth trauma.

Eruption failure doesn’t just affect the aesthetic look of a child’s smile. It can also cause the erupted teeth to shift and crowd, affecting the symmetry of the jaw and face. Whatever the cause, It is important for parents to take action should a tooth not come in.

Your orthodontist can fabricate special dental appliances to encourage a reticent tooth to enter the light of day. One such appliance is the aptly named Removable Force Eruption Appliance, made by Space Maintainers Laboratories. Ask your dental professional about this appliance on your next visit.