Management of missing teeth with C-implants

Congenitally missing permanent teeth are common clinical findings in orthodontic patients. Although a goal of orthodontic treatment in this situation can be to regain the lost space so the missing teeth can be replaced, it can also be to maintain the regained space for future implants. This chapter recommends a two-piece orthodontic C-implant system as an alternative treatment option to retain the edentulous space after orthodontic treatment. A provisional restoration with C-implants also helps maintain the bone level of the alveolar ridge and reduce the need for a future bone graft. C-implant systems provide three important benefits: no patient compliance requirements, prevention of alveolar bone resorption, and the management of esthetics with patient growth. Some characteristics of the C-implant system allow it to be used as a provisional restoration. The enhanced surface treatment gives better resistance to multidirectional orthodontic forces or movements similar to that of conventional prosthetic implants.