DELAYED TOOTH ERUPTION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: ASSOCIATED FACTORS, DIAGNOSIS AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Delayed tooth eruption (DTE) is described as the most frequent deviation from the expected eruption schedule and may stem from local, systemic, genetic, or perinatal causes. This study analyzed the associated factors, diagnostic methods, and clinical management approaches related to DTE in children and adolescents. An integrative review was conducted following the PICo strategy, with searches performed across the MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Virtual Health Library (VHL/LILACS) databases (2016–2026). A total of 87 studies were included—77 of which were primary research—with a predominance of observational studies (49.4%) and case reports or case series (39.1%). Local factors were the most prevalent (47.1%), notably odontomas, supernumerary teeth, and trauma to the primary dentition, followed by systemic conditions (21.8%), genetic and syndromic conditions (18.4%), and perinatal, nutritional, or population-related factors (11.5%). Clinical examination and radiography were the most frequently reported diagnostic tools, while cone-beam computed tomography was rarely mentioned. Clinical management varied from the surgical removal of an eruptive barrier to orthodontic traction or simple monitoring. It is concluded that DTE requires investigation into the underlying cause, diagnostic imaging, and an individualized management plan, with the current body of evidence consisting primarily of case reports.