Overview :
Replacing congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors – implant supported crowns or sham canines?
The replacement of congenitally missing lateral incisors is a challenging clinical scenario and involves a multi-disciplinary approach. It is complicated by the necessity to make treatment planning decisions in a relatively young cohort of patients and requires some prediction of their future growth and development.
There is considerable debate around canine substitution and prosthetic replacement as the most appropriate treatment modality. The advent of implant-supported crowns has added to the complexity. There are advantages and disadvantages of both approaches. The timing of treatment is also crucial. Although the aesthetic outcome is of prime importance for the patient, functional considerations and long-term maintenance are also significant factors to consider.
There needs to be close co-ordination between the treatment team including the GDP, orthodontist, prosthodontist and perhaps oral surgeon.
Learning objectives
1. How to rationalize replacement of the congenitally missing lateral incisor considering aesthetics, function and long-term maintenance.
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of canine substitution.
3. When is the most appropriate time to place implants if they are required
Speaker: Dr. Terry Walton
Dr. Terry Walton graduated Bachelor of Dental Surgery and Master of Dental Science from the University of Sydney in 1974 and 1979 respectively; Master of Science (Prosthodontics) from the University of Michigan in 1981and Doctor of Dental Science from the University of Sydney in 2013. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, the International College of Dentists, the American Academy of Prosthodontists and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. Dr. Walton has been in Specialist Prosthodontist practice in Sydney since 1983 and holds the title of Professor Affiliate in Clinical Dentistry at the University of Sydney. He is a member of many Australian and International dental organizations and was the Co-President of the International College of Prosthodontists during 2000 and 2001. Dr. Walton has been involved in practice-based clinical research into the long-term outcome and patient evaluation of tooth and implant-supported dental prostheses. He has also been involved in materials research.
