With the development of so-called “non-extraction”10 treatments in contemporary orthodontics, complications in the eruption of the second molars are becoming noticeably more prevalent in our practices ranging from a simple delay of eruption, to ectopic eruption, up to retention of the second molars caused by a mechanical obstruction. Using a retrospective study of some cases and a review of the literature, we are seeking to find new diagnostic approaches in order to choose the best treatment.

The development of predictive medicine for dentistry is very promising but there are potential abuses as well. Given that genetic testing is at the forefront of predictive medicine, legislation has been established governing activity related to genetics that is both open to the advances that genetic testing can provide and, at the same time, respectful of the fundamental rights of patients and in particular of the rights of minors.