Question
Primary teeth are usually replaced by permanent teeth around the age of 6 or 7. However, in cases of congenital tooth absence, how should one handle the situation?
Answer
Congenital tooth absence is typically caused by a congenital lack of permanent tooth buds. In such cases, restorative measures such as implants can only be considered after all other permanent teeth have fully erupted, which usually occurs after the patient is 18 years old. Before the permanent teeth emerge, space maintainers can be installed to prevent malalignment of the teeth due to the absence of a tooth. This is the answer to the question “What should be done about congenital tooth absence?” and we hope it provides you with some assistance.