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The absence of teeth in youths can be due to congenital absence, traumas, caries and periodontitis. The loss of a tooth in growing patients can cause both aesthetic-functional and psychological problems, particularly if the teeth of the anterior region are involved. When there is the loss of a dental element in a teenager it is necessary to provide a quick suitable therapeutic solution, which will be different in comparison to an adult because of the changes related to the growth of the maxillary bones. The aim of this paper is the analysis of the several therapies which can be carried out on young patients with partial edentulism, paying particular attention to the conditions and the indications which allow an implant prosthesis restoration.

Hybrid prosthesis supported by natural teeth (overdenture) is widely used in clinical practice and should be executed whenever the clinical conditions suggest it. Through a critical review of the literature, the anatomical, functional, psychological and clinical advantages are emphasized. Among the first ones, the prophylaxis of residual anatomical components, due to the limitation of bone resorption, and the preservation of sensorial proprioception are relevant. Important advantages are also represented by a better crown-root ratio of residual teeth supporting overdenture, with the consequent improvement of the longitudinal prognosis of such teeth. The greater retention and stability of overdenture in comparison with complete denture greatly improve the masticatory efficacy. The psychological advantages resulting from the dental anchorage, which allows the patient to be more confident in social life, are also relevant. Finally, when the dental support is lost, converting overdenture into complete denture is simple and quick, and makes easier the longitudinal clinical maintenance of the denture.