To Open or to Close Space – That is the Missing Lateral Incisor Question

From Volume 32, Issue 1, January 2005 | Pages 16-25

Authors

Lee Savarrio

Consultant in Restorative Dentistry, Glasgow Dental Hospital & School, 378 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3JZ

Articles by Lee Savarrio

Grant T. McIntyre

BDS, FDS RCPS (Glasg.), MOrth RCS(Edin.), PhD, FDS(Orth.) RCPS(Glasg.)

Dundee Dental Hospital

Articles by Grant T. McIntyre

Abstract

Developmentally absent permanent maxillary lateral incisors may be associated with several problems. The decision whether to open or to close the space should involve the patient/parent, orthodontist and restorative dentist. To optimize function and aesthetics, space should be opened using fixed appliances to accommodate an appropriate prosthesis. Implant-retained crowns offer several advantages, although adhesive bridges are more appropriate in certain circumstances. Removable partial dentures may be necessary in some instances. Where space opening is not feasible, practical or desirable, any residual spacing can be closed using fixed appliances and the permanent maxillary canines modified to resemble lateral incisors.

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