Esthetic dentistry in patients with bilaterally missing maxillary lateral incisors: A multidisciplinary case report

Abstract

Congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors pose a difficult esthetic and treatment planning problem for clinicians. Age, location, space limitations, alveolar ridge deficiencies, uneven gingival margins, occlusion and periodontal factors often necessitate an interdisciplinary approach. Over the last several decades, dentistry has focused various treatment modalities for replacement of missing teeth. Treatment plans for patients with missing maxillary lateral incisors have traditionally included either space closure or space reopening. To remove healthy tooth structure of adjacent teeth to replace a tooth, for some patients and dentists, is a very aggressive treatment option which eliminates the option of three unit bridges. Removable partial dentures are also not preferred for its bulkiness and reduced esthetics. Presently, the single implant supported crown is a predictable method of tooth replacement in adolescents. The aim of this case report is to provide a conservative method for the management of bilateral missing lateral incisor.