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Published on: August 15, 2025
A multi-disciplinary approach to congenitally missing anterior teeth
David Galler1, Caroline Quiong, Jeffrey Galler
1drgaller@hotmail.com
The New York State Dental Journal
|March 14, 2009
Summary
Congenitally missing teeth present unique restorative challenges. This case highlights how orthodontics is crucial for preparing complex dental anomalies for prosthetic restoration.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Congenitally missing teeth are a common dental anomaly.
- This case involves multiple missing permanent teeth and an underdeveloped tooth.
- Existing occlusion and alignment issues complicate treatment planning.
Observation:
- The patient presented with congenitally missing upper right permanent cuspid and lower anterior right and left permanent central incisors.
- An underdeveloped upper right permanent lateral incisor was also noted.
- Complex malocclusion and tooth alignment issues were present.
Findings:
- Simple extraction of primary teeth and prosthetic replacement were not feasible due to complex occlusion.
- Orthodontic intervention was essential to establish ideal interocclusal and interarch space.
- This orthodontic preparation facilitated subsequent prosthetic restoration.
Implications:
- Orthodontic treatment is critical for managing complex cases of congenital tooth absence.
- A multidisciplinary approach combining orthodontics and prosthodontics ensures optimal outcomes.
- This strategy addresses functional and aesthetic concerns in patients with extensive dental anomalies.
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The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.