Table 4.

Treatment of Manifestations in Individuals with Nonsyndromic Tooth Agenesis

Manifestation/ConcernTreatment/RecommendationConsiderations/Other
Oral hygiene Standard treatment per dentistPediatric dentists typically treat patients from infancy to age 14 yrs; then, transition to an adult dentist should be considered.
Maintenance of existing dentition Diet counselingNutritional counseling to incl non- or low-cariogenic foods & eliminate unhealthy habits
Fluoride varnishBiannual placement to prevent dental caries/cavities
Fluoride sealantsPlaced on deep pits & fissures to prevent caries/cavities
Mouth guardTo prevent dental trauma & loss of additional permanent teeth
Preservation of primary teeth that are missing successor permanent teeth Maintenance of dental arch length until growth is complete & implants can be placedArch length must be maintained until orthodontic appliances are complete or until implants are placed after growth is complete, age 6 to adulthood.
Prosthodontics Adjustable appliance to accommodate normal craniofacial growth & development
  • In those ages 6-18 yrs
  • Also serves psychological & functional purposes
Prosthetic replacement of missing teeth following orthodontic treatment
  • In those ages 12-18 yrs
  • Emphasis on functional & esthetic success
Space redistribution, alignment, bite correction Standard treatment per orthodontistTypically after age 12 yrs
Missing teeth Implant placement 1, 2For single tooth implant, in adulthood / after growth is complete
Implant retained prothesis 1, 2For multiple missing teeth, in adulthood / after growth is complete
Orthognathic surgeryIf skeletal discrepancies are present, in adulthood / after growth is complete
1.

Implants should only be placed after the majority of skeletal growth is completed.

2.

Extraction of primary teeth and/or bone augmentation procedures may be necessary before implant placement.

From: Nonsyndromic Tooth Agenesis Overview

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