Canine substitution

- This is when the lateral incisors are missing and we reshape the canines to look like lateral incisors
- In the near and long term, natural teeth look better in the front of the mouth
- Implants are better at the back of the mouth because over time the gum and bone recedes exposing the neck of the crown on the implant
- Reshaping and composite buildups of the upper 4's to look like canines - implants will be placed in the upper first premolar position at about age 18 years
- The alterative approach is creating space for the upper lateral incisors and placing false teeth there, which is less aesthetically pleasing long term and more of a nuisance for the patient