Odontomas, the most common mixed odontogenic tumors, can obstruct the eruption of neighboring teeth and impair normal chewing function. The management of teeth impacted by odontomas largely depends on the tumor’s location and the developmental stage of the affected tooth’s root. This report highlights the clinical outcomes of combining surgical and orthodontic approaches in pediatric and adolescent patients with odontomas. Two patients—a boy aged 8 and a girl aged 17—were diagnosed with sizable odontomas in the posterior maxilla during radiographic evaluation. The tumors caused impaction of the first molars on the affected side in both cases.
Surgical excision of the odontomas was performed for both patients. In the younger patient, the impacted molar erupted naturally within fourteen months following surgery. In the older patient, orthodontic traction was required to achieve proper eruption and alignment of the impacted molar. Large posterior odontomas may result in malpositioned molars and altered root development. Early intervention before root maturation increases the likelihood of spontaneous tooth eruption; otherwise, orthodontic assistance becomes necessary. Coordinated care between surgical and orthodontic teams is crucial to ensure optimal outcomes in growing patients with odontomas.
