Missing laterals cases can present a range of challenges and complexities, and as part of this, knowing how to tackle implants can be a little trickier than usual. This is a topic that’s been tackled in a recent piece of literature by Taylor M Olsen and Vincent G Kokich Sr, and we’re briefly assessing their recommendations for achieving best retention in missing lateral incisor cases for teens awaiting implants.

Why Retention is Needed for Missing Laterals Cases

In missing laterals cases, retention is vital to ensure the patient is ready for their implants when the time comes. Indeed, it can potentially be up to a decade before the implant is given, so effective retention will be integral.

Many people will use regular Essex or Hawley retainers with a pontic for retention, but the roots are potentially likely to re-converge over time. In turn, this will prevent the patient from getting their implant, requiring another extended period of orthodontics.

The chances of this happening is around 11% (more than one in ten patients) and this may be due to inconsistent wear. As such, keeping an eye on the patient’s progress is highly important to ensure the retainer is working as intended. This is especially critical in cases where the patient is unlikely to have the implant fitted for several years, as the chance of the retainers being used incorrectly can be quite high.