Outcome of orthodontic space closure with a missing maxillary central incisor

Orthodontic space closure is one of the treatment alternatives when a maxillary central incisor is missing. Because no systematic analysis of such treatment results is available, a sample of 20 consecutively treated patients was examined in a follow-up study. All patients had received orthodontic treatment with the objective of closing the space for the missing central incisor. Biologic features and the clinical appearance of the recontoured lateral incisor (test tooth) replacing the missing tooth were compared with the neighboring intact central incisor, which served as control tooth. The patients' opinions regarding the treatment and the result were recorded in a questionnaire. The position of the examined teeth and the appearance of the surrounding soft tissues were similar in the test and control teeth. However, in some patients (25%), certain aspects of the recontoured incisor crown (such as the width at the gingival margin) mismatched the appearance of the controls. A somewhat increased mobility and probing pocket depth on the mesial aspect was recorded for some test teeth. No obvious detrimental effects were observed on the radiographs. Most patients expressed satisfaction with the treatment result. It is concluded that orthodontic mesialization of the lateral incisor to replace a missing central incisor is a valid treatment modality, if the indications for such treatment are present and careful attention to detail in orthodontic and restorative treatment is exercised.