The agenesis of maxillary lateral incisors is a common dental anomaly that often presents aesthetic and functional challenges for patients and orthodontists. Patients are generally faced with two main treatment options: orthodontic space closure with canine substitution or space opening followed by prosthetic replacement. Both approaches aim to achieve satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes. While both options can provide acceptable results, their indications and outcomes differ depending on the individual characteristics of each patient and long-term considerations.
This article highlights, through clinical cases, the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in treatment planning for cases of lateral incisor agenesis, ensuring that the unique needs of each patient are addressed to achieve the best possible short- and long-term outcomes.