Agenesis (absence of development) of the upper lateral incisors

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September 18, 2019
Stages in the treatment of periodontal disease
June 3, 2019
What are implants and who can benefit from implant treatment
September 18, 2019

Agenesis (absence of development) of the upper lateral incisors

The failure to develop of the upper lateral incisors (agenesis) is a frequently occurring anomaly, usually within the same family.

When the upper lateral incisors fail to develop, the big question we as ourselves is whether to keep the existing gap and insert an implant or a prosthesis or close the gap by bringing the canines forward, next to the central incisors. The choice must take into account the aesthetics, the individual profile of each patient’s face, as well as the stability and functionality of the occlusion (bite).

Advantages of keeping the gap from the missing incisors:

  • a balanced smile, due to the presence of all incisors,
  • a fuller profile, due to the support provided to the soft parts of the face,
  • the presence of the canines in positions that allow a proper guiding in the movement of the mandible.

Advantages of closing the gap from the missing incisors:

  • eliminates the need to insert implants or prostheses which require several replacements throughout the lifetime,
  • the treatment is easier, particularly if the canine has erupted significantly forward, towards the central incisor,
  • if there is a wisdom tooth, it will have enough space to erupt on the dental arch and be functional,
  • the only thing required will be a remodeling of the tip of the canine and/or whitening, in order to make it look like an incisor,
  • the occlusion can be improved through minor polishing operations, to avoid interferences