By replacing the missing teeth, it can prevent neighbouring teeth tilting or drifting and also prevents the overeruption of opposing teeth which could then impact on occlusion and temporo-mandibular joint dysfunction and impact the patients susceptibility to gum disease, tooth wear and tooth fractures. However, studies have suggested that a stable occlusion can be achieved even with a shortened arch of 10 occluding pairs of teeth. The findings support the concept that a healthy and stable occlusion can exist despite missing teeth as long as an acceptable number of teeth are in occlusion. However, this management technique may not be suitable for those with gum disease, parafunctioning activity (tooth grinding or clenching) or malocclusion.It should also be noted that spaces within the dental arch should be monitored, especially in younger patients, as teeth are more likely to drift, tilt or over-erupt. To do this, study models and clinical photographs could be taken in order to record baseline records. If tooth movement was to occur, another form of management may be required depending on the severity and nature.The following below are the methods used to manage hypodontia:

Accept spacing
This is a method suitable to individuals if the space from a missing tooth is not deemed to be an aesthetic concern. Appearance may not be a problem in some cases, for example, when spacing present behind the canines may not be particularly visible, depending on the individual.
Management of retained primary teeth
When there is a case of hypodontia of the permanent premolar teeth, the primary molar teeth would often remain in the mouth beyond the time they are meant to be lost. Therefore, with a presence of healthy primary teeth in the absence of a permanent successor, retaining the primary teeth can be a feasible management of hypodontia. The primary molars present also functions as a space maintainer, prevent alveolar bone resorption and delays future prosthodontic space replacement by acting as a semi permanent solution going into adulthood Previous studies also shown a good prognosis of retained primary molars going into adulthood. However, leaving the primary teeth in place may run the risk of tooth infraocclusion where the occlusal surface is below that of adjacent teeth.Despite this, the retention of primary teeth, particularly molars, are more susceptible to occlusal wear, over-eruption of opposing teeth and the loss of inter-occlusal space. Orthodontic space closure
Orthodontic space closure is a way of using orthodontics in order to close spaces in the mouth where the teeth are missing. The ideal age for definitive orthodontic treatment is early adolescence but it is important to consider the patients age, severity of hypodontia, patient expectations and their commitment to treatment. It can be an option for hypodontia management in the case of missing maxillary lateral incisors through the reshaping, and mesial re-positioning of the adjacent canine.