Awareness of the occlusal changes following individual tooth loss may be increasingly important when planning treatment for patients who are likely to retain a relatively intact dentition throughout life. Some evidence exists to support dentists who are considering prevention or treatment of overeruption. This paper explores the literature available on the changes in the prevalence of tooth loss, the prevalence and presentation of overeruption, its relevance to dental restoration and the prevention and treatment of overeruption.
Clinical relevance: This article reviews the prevalence and consequence of overeruption in posterior teeth.