Has it really sunk?
It may instead remain behind relative to growth.
← All explanationsInfraocclusion
Why is one tooth lower than its neighbours?
Infraocclusion means that a tooth’s chewing surface lies below the level of neighbouring teeth. In children it can be associated with ankylosis of a primary tooth. The lower position alone does not establish the cause.
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Below the chewing level
A tooth does not reach the level of neighbouring chewing surfaces. This does not necessarily mean it has physically sunk into the bone.
Growth changes the picture
An ankylosed tooth may remain behind while neighbouring teeth and bone develop during growth. Other causes are possible.
Check space and the successor
Neighbouring teeth, available space and any permanent successor are assessed. Observation or treatment depends on these findings.
Read the full explanation
Below the chewing level
A tooth does not reach the level of neighbouring chewing surfaces. This does not necessarily mean it has physically sunk into the bone.
Growth changes the picture
An ankylosed tooth may remain behind while neighbouring teeth and bone develop during growth. Other causes are possible.
Check space and the successor
Neighbouring teeth, available space and any permanent successor are assessed. Observation or treatment depends on these findings.
Notes on the teaching images
- Fictional teaching illustration, not a patient case or treatment result.
At a glance
Only baby teeth?
The positional term is not restricted to primary teeth.
Remove it immediately?
That depends on the whole finding.
Knowledge in motion
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Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Low in the bite or not yet erupted?
Infraocclusion describes a tooth sitting below the expected chewing level. A tooth that has not emerged is a different finding; examination distinguishes them.
Quick answers
Is infraocclusion the same as ankylosis?
No. Infraocclusion describes tooth level. Ankylosis is a direct connection between root and bone without the normal periodontal ligament space at that site.
Must the lower baby tooth be removed?
Not always. Severity, the successor, tipping and development matter. Monitoring can also be part of the plan.
What if the successor is missing?
Long-term planning is needed. The primary tooth’s condition, growth, space and possible future replacement are considered together; extraction is not automatic.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
Is there a permanent successor, and does the lower position affect available space?
An examination can clarify the finding and any need for referral.
Arrange an assessmentAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Occlusal plane
- A reference based on chewing surfaces and incisal edges.
- Ankylosis
- A local direct connection between the root and bone.
Make the distinction
Infraocclusion describes a tooth sitting below the expected chewing level. A tooth that has not emerged is a different finding; examination distinguishes them.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.