Second molar impaction associated with lip bumper therapy

While lip bumper therapy significantly improves mandibular arch perimeter for patients with mixed dentition, it also is associated with second molar impaction. Faculty and researchers in the Department of Orthodontics at Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry conducted a study to assess second molar impaction associated with lip bumpers, as well as treatment options to resolve the condition when it does occur.  Of 67 patients involved in the study, nearly 12 percent did develop impacted second molars as a result of the lip bumper therapy. Common treatments included spacers and in some cases, surgery.

Citation: Jacob HB, LeMert S, Alexander R, Buschang P. Second molar impaction associated with lip bumper therapy. Dental Press Journal of Orthodontics November/December 2014, 19(6): 99-104.