This report describes the surgical repositioning of a developing maxillary permanent central incisor in a horizontal position, followed by spontaneous eruption and root formation without orthodontic traction. Surgical exposure of the right central incisor was achieved. A 7-year-old boy referred for orthodontic consultation. Radiographic examination showed the crown of a maxillary right central incisor to be positioned horizontally with root formation at the initial stage. The surgically repositioned incisor (by a close-eruption surgical flap technique) spontaneously erupted into correct alignment after 2 years 3 months. The erupted incisor remained vital and responded normally to percussion, mobility and sensitivity testing. The soft tissue, periodontal attachment, gingival contour and probing depths were normal. Follow-up radiographs confirmed the continued development of the root, with revascularization of the pulp and a normal appearance of the periodontal space and lamina dura. There was, however, shorter root formation and a narrower root cavity compared with the contralateral incisor. As a result, no orthodontic traction and alignment were required. This method of surgical repositioning is a viable alternative to the traditional approach of extraction or surgical exposure followed by orthodontic traction for a developing maxillary permanent central incisor in a horizontal position.