Close the space of a missing tooth — or keep symmetry and place an implant?
In this 3D Predct clinical case below, an adult patient presented with a retained lower primary canine and a missing lower incisor. Two treatment options were considered: closing the space by moving the teeth, or opening space for a future implant.
With 3D Predict, clinicians can create an unlimited number of treatment plan versions and clearly compare the final result of each option. This allowed the doctor to visually demonstrate the long-term consequences of space closure versus implant preparation.
While space closure initially seemed simpler, reviewing the alternative “no implant” plan made the risks clear: a significant overjet and a high risk of the lower incisor roots moving outside the alveolar bone — something that became obvious thanks to CBCT-based planning.
The final plan included 30 aligner steps and 2 refinements, resulting in a corrected midline, harmonious occlusion, and properly prepared space for the incisor.
Seeing the outcome makes the right decision easier.
