Peg-shaped maxillary lateral incisors are associated with which of the following complications?

Peg-shaped (microdont) maxillary lateral incisors are strongly associated with palatally impacted maxillary canines. The maxillary lateral incisor normally acts as a guide for the erupting canine. When the lateral incisor is peg-shaped, small, or congenitally absent, it fails to adequately guide the canine's eruption path, leading to palatal impaction. This association is well-established: up to 40% of patients with palatally impacted canines have associated peg laterals or congenitally absent laterals. Early identification of peg laterals in mixed dentition should prompt radiographic evaluation for canine position and timely orthodontic intervention.