Tooth agenesis is the absence of one or more teeth, whether temporary or permanent teeth. Agenesia is a common anomaly and occurs from genetic causes, being common in children with parents or other relatives who also have agenesis. In the permanent dentition, it commonly affects the wisdom teeth, and in the upper arch the teeth most affected are the lateral incisors. There is no way to prevent dental agenesis. It must, however, be detected early, as even if the correction involves maintaining the spaces and then rehabilitating; or involves closing the spaces, correction is usually indicated with orthodontic appliances, which, depending on the case, may need to be placed before all the permanent teeth erupt. All children should be evaluated by an orthodontist around the age of 7 to assess situations like this that may benefit from early orthodontic correction.

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