Space Closure for Missing Upper Lateral Incisors

Abstract Aplasia of permanent teeth is not uncommon—it has a prevalence of 1.5% to 11.3%. In addition to leaving a deciduous tooth, the single-tooth implant, the adhesive bridge, the tooth transplantation, and the orthodontic space closure should be discussed as alternative therapies for missing upper lateral incisors. Differential diagnostic aspects to be considered, when choosing a therapy, could be the chronologic and skeletal age, the skeletal and dental relations in the lateral Ceph, the shape, color and eruption position of the canine or the smile line. Finally, if the therapeutic decision is in favor of an orthodontic space closure, several aspects must be considered that significantly influence the final treatment result. Biomechanics and anchorage play the crucial role during orthodontic space closure. During the finishing stage, the interdisciplinary cooperation is decisive. However, it should always be carefully observed, whether a space can be closed orthodontically or alternative therapies could be a better option.