Modern restorative management of patients with congenitally missing teeth: 4. The role of implants

In this fourth and final paper on the management of patients with congenitally missing teeth, the use of dental implants is considered. This group of patients often provides unique challenges when implant reconstruction is considered. Often a multidisciplinary approach is required involving orthodontists, oral surgeons and restorative dentists. The use of dental implant systems is a rapidly developing area of dentistry and its implications on hypodontia are discussed. This paper identifies the problems associated with a congenital absence of teeth and addresses their management in relation to the use of implants.

The use of dental implants in hypodontia patients should always be considered as a treatment option. These groups of patients, however, require careful planning, often of a multidisciplinary nature, so that the timing of the various treatment modalities is seamless.