Self‐correction of the ectopic eruption of the maxillary first permanent molar and its predictive factors: A systematic review

Background Ectopic eruption of the maxillary first permanent molar is a local disturbance that affects the development of the occlusion. Aim To evaluate the occurrence of self‐correction of maxillary first permanent molar's ectopic eruption and its predictive factors. Design Five electronic databases and part of the gray literature were investigated. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale and the certainty of evidence using the GRADE tool. Results Four studies were selected: Three had a low risk of bias, and one, moderate. Evidence with a moderate level of certainty was generated, indicating a possibility of 47%–78% of spontaneous correction up to 7 years of age. Supporting the prognosis, whether reversible or irreversible, there was a positive correlation between the severity of the atypical distal resorption of the second primary molar, a higher magnitude of impaction, a larger eruption angle, and a bilateral occurrence with the irreversibility of the cases. Conclusion Spontaneous correction of the ectopic eruption of the maxillary first permanent molar is feasible and dependent on the severity of predictive factors. Early intervention is mandatory in irreversible cases.