Restorative dentistry clinical decision-making for hypodontia: managing missing premolar teeth

Hypodontia is a relatively common clinical condition and the second premolar tooth is the most common tooth that fails to develop (excluding third molars). For some patients, no treatment is required, as there is little, if any, consequence of the condition. For other patients, the missing teeth are part of a more complex dental presentation, requiring specialist dental management. This paper describes the clinical decision-making process and explores the options for managing this presentation of hypodontia. Key points To consider the main clinical decision-making principles for managing hypodontia patients with missing premolar teeth. To understand each of the treatment options for replacing missing premolar teeth. To recognise the important clinical factors required to ensure better outcomes when replacing missing premolar teeth.