Also Failure to replace a missing posterior tooth is assumed to disrupt the balance of the stomatognathic system and trigger a host of adverse consequences.1 These consequences—which include extrusion of opposing teeth, tilting of adjacent teeth and disturbances in the health of the supporting structures—also are thought to hasten the loss of remaining teeth. Extrusion of an unopposed tooth into the edentulous space may disrupt occlusion and complicate replacement of the missing tooth. Tilting or “collapse” of the teeth adjacent to the edentulous space may lead to periodontal problems or heightened risk of caries development. It also may complicate restoration of the space; it could prompt the need for orthodontic uprighting or necessitate increased reduction of abutment teeth with corresponding negative effects on pulpal health and prosthesis retention, if a fixed partial denture were placed.
