Interdisciplinary orthodontics-implants management of a challenging hypodontia case complicated by a class II...

The case in this study had moderate hypodontia, with both lower lateral incisors and the lower-left second premolar missing. A Class II division 2 relationship with severe crowding in the upper arch and a traumatic deep bite over a skeletal I base complicated the occlusion.

The plan was to extract the upper first premolars to relieve upper arch crowding and the lower-left impacted second premolar to preserve the bilateral class I molar relationship. A class I occlusal relationship was achieved through space opening in the lower lateral incisors region and space closure in the upper and lower premolars regions.

The use of orthodontic screws for bite opening and anterior segment retraction, in conjunction with bi-metric slot size selection in bracket prescription, was effective in controlling incisor inclination and interincisal angle. The use of an implant fixture before beginning the finishing stage allowed for a reduction in total treatment time and facilitated the provision of the final prosthesis before debonding the case. As a result, the patient was able to receive a satisfactory occlusion on the day of debonding.

This case of moderate hypodontia was successfully resolved by combining space closure and space opening effectively. To solve the arch problems in such Class II division 2 cases with severe crowding, extractions were required. To complete the case, this was combined with intrusive and retractive mechanics. In hypodontia cases, implants are an excellent choice for both aesthetics and functional restoration.