Agenesis, the absence of permanent teeth, is a common occurrence among dental patients. The total incidence of tooth agenesis is about 4.2% among patients that are seeking orthodontic treatment and with the exception of third molars, the maxillary lateral incisors are the most common congenitally missing teeth with about a 2% incidence. Esthetically correcting congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors is a common challenge that every orthodontist and dental team will face, and dentists must consider the treatment options that are most appropriate for each patient. This article discusses factors in determining whether to close an open space or to open enough space for a prosthetic treatment for congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors. Further, the importance of a total treatment approach using an interdisciplinary dental specialty team to maximize function, aesthetics, and oral health is discussed.

The purpose of this case study is to demonstrate improved nighttime breathing using Orofacial Myofunctional therapy as an adjunct treatment approach as a member of a dental team with patients who have been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

Background: The field of Myofunctional Therapy, evaluating and treating Myofunctional Disorders, has historically focused on achieving oral rest postures of the tongue & lips along with eliminating a tongue thrust swallowing pattern with a saliva, liquid and solid bolus. This important work stabilizes the oral complex thus avoiding orthodontic relapse in children through adults.