According to the ugly duckling stage, what dental feature is often seen due to canine eruption pressure?

The concept of the "ugly duckling stage" in orthodontics refers to a phase during mixed dentition when anterior teeth may appear to be misaligned or spaced due to the eruption of canine teeth. During this transition, the eruption of the permanent maxillary canines can create pressure on the adjacent incisor teeth. This pressure often leads to the development of a midline diastema, which is a space between the upper front teeth (the central incisors).

As the canines come into position, they can push against the incisors, making them appear more spaced apart than they normally would be. This phenomenon is temporary and usually resolves as the dental arch matures and other teeth adjust into their final positions. Recognizing this stage is crucial for orthodontists and pediatric dentists to avoid unnecessary treatment when the spacing may correct itself as the child continues to grow and other teeth erupt.

The phenomenon is specific to the changes initiated by canine eruption pressure, making the midline diastema the most relevant feature associated with this stage.