In the dynamic field of dental aesthetics, a multidisciplinary approach has risen as the gold standard for providing patients with optimal function, biological integrity, and esthetic appeal. Notably, a case report published in The Saudi Dental Journal describes a comprehensive strategy utilized to enhance the aesthetic outcome for a patient experiencing multiple dental concerns. This patient, who presented with excessive gingival display, spacing between anterior teeth, and small-sized anterior teeth, alongside unrestorable molars with extensive carious lesions, embarked on a transformational journey through the collaboration of various dental specialties (Albarrak et al., 2019).
DOI: 10.1016/j.sdentj.2019.01.007
The intricate treatment plan included processes such as crown lengthening, prosthetic rehabilitation with lithium disilicate crowns, and a minimally invasive implant placement technique, largely focusing on achieving a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing outcome (Albarrak et al., 2019). This multifaceted case underscores the importance of integrating different dental expertise areas to address complex aesthetic and functional rehabilitation cases effectively.
Excessive Gingival Display and Esthetic Challenges
The phenomenon of excessive gingival display, colloquially known as a ‘gummy smile,’ poses a significant esthetic challenge and requires precise diagnostic and treatment protocols. This condition often leads patients to feel self-conscious about their smiles, in turn, impacting their psychosocial well-being (Lukez et al., 2015). Treatment approaches for a high smile line typically entail a combination of periodontal, prosthodontic, and sometimes orthodontic interventions (Silberberg et al., 2009).
Crown Lengthening and Its Role in Esthetics
Crown lengthening serves a dual purpose: it improves tooth proportionality and affords the necessary space for restorative material, which is vital for both the longevity and esthetics of the dental restoration (Moharir et al., 2016). Assaf (2014) emphasized the role of esthetic crown lengthening, particularly for anterior teeth, noting that it is crucial in achieving symmetrical and appealing outcomes.
Prosthetic Dentistry and Material Choices
The choice of lithium disilicate for crowns accentuates the evolving landscape of dental materials, offering durable yet highly esthetic results. Empirical evidence supports its use, citing superior mechanical properties and aesthetic outcome compared to other materials (Qamheya et al., 2016). Furthermore, prostheses like dental veneers have seen advancements in materials and techniques, improving their clinical success and esthetic integration (Lovadino et al., 2012).
Minimally Invasive Implant Placement
The minimally invasive placement of dental implants has been increasingly favored over conventional methods, as it minimizes trauma, reduces recovery time, and often yields comparable success rates (Becker et al., 2005). Such an approach was employed in this case report, further exemplifying contemporary trends in dental practice that prioritize patient comfort and clinical efficacy.
The Multidisciplinary Approach Advantage
An interdisciplinary strategy in dentistry, as showcased in this case report, aligns with the growing recognition that optimal results are frequently achieved when various dental disciplines converge to tackle a case. This approach offers personalized and comprehensive care, addressing multidimensional aspects of dental health and aesthetics. Supporting this approach, Alam and Sabir (2015) posited that a multidisciplinary treatment strategy is indispensable in modern dentistry to cater to the increasing expectations for advanced dental care.
Keywords
1. Esthetic Dentistry
2. Multidisciplinary Dental Care
3. Excessive Gingival Display Treatment
4. Crown Lengthening Procedure
5. Minimally Invasive Dental Implants
References
1. Albarrak, A. A., AlRumaih, H. S., Al-Humaidan, A., Al-Thobity, A. M., & Alshahrani, F. A. (2019). Multidisciplinary approach with predictable esthetics: A case report. The Saudi Dental Journal, 31(Suppl 2019), S89–S95. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sdentj.2019.01.007
2. Assaf, M. (2014). Esthetic crown lengthening for upper anterior teeth: indications and surgical techniques. International Journal of Preventive & Clinical Dental Research, 1(2), 49–53.
3. Becker, W., Goldstein, M., & Becker, B. E. (2005). Minimally invasive flapless implant surgery: a prospective multicenter study. Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research, 21–27. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1708-8208.2005.tb00051.x
4. Lovadino, J. R., Sano, R., Terada, S., & Pascotto, R. C. (2012). Advances in dental veneers: materials, applications, and techniques. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dentistry, 9–16. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCIDE.S28719
5. Lukez, A. (2015). The unique contribution of elements of smile aesthetics to psychosocial well-being. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 25339622. https://doi.org/10.1111/joor.12303
6. Silberberg, N., Goldstein, M., & Smidt, A. (2009). Excessive gingival display — etiology, diagnosis, and treatment modalities. Quintessence International, 10. https://doi.org/10.3290/j.qi.a17159