Congenitally missing lateral incisors--a comparison between restorative, implant, and orthodontic approaches

Tooth agenesis is one of the most common developmental dental anomalies. Successful and satisfying dental treatment is always the goal for patients and dental practitioners, meaning that a patient's needs are solved in a functional and esthetic way. Patients and dentists have to find the best way to reach their common goal of satisfaction. The authors introduce and provide examples of different approaches to solve the problem of congenitally missing lateral incisors. This article discusses the restorative approach, the approach using implants, and the orthodontic approach. In most cases, an interdisciplinary treatment plan has to be worked out and executed.