Canine Substitution Versus Implant for Treating Congenitally Missing Lateral Incisors: A Systematic Review

Background: Addressing the challenges posed by the Congenitally Missing Maxillary Lateral Incisors (CMMLI) is not limited to single treatment modality. Objective: This systematic review is intended to evaluate the evidence for the best treatment option available for the CMMLI. Methods: Electronic data base search was done across PubMed, Google scholar, Embase, Publons, Web of Sciences, etc. Selection of articles was limited to English language publications pertaining to CMMLI treatment modalities either by closing the space orthodontically and substituting canine or by prosthetic replacement. Two authors reviewed the articles for the eligibility criteria to overcome the selection bias. The risk for assessment of bias across and within the studies was done through Cochrane ROBINS-I assessment tool. Results: Out of 130 studies which were searched for review questions, only 3 studies met the selection criteria. There was no difference in the periodontal status evaluation or in the patient’s perception of aesthetics between the two treatment modalities. Neither of the two treatment modalities cause any TMJ abnormalities. Conclusion: Both closing the space orthodontically by substituting canine and prosthetic replacement by the use of implant for the missing maxillary lateral incisor seem to be viable treatment plans.