Before

After

Before

After

I just saw this lovely patient yesterday for her regular check up and cleaning. I had to take a picture of the bonding we did 3 years ago. The bonding is doing well in part because our patient is excellent with her oral hygiene and because we addressed function as well as aesthetics when we did the treatment. The original post below describes the details: ⁣
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In my opinion, anterior direct composite restorations can be one of the most challenging treatments that we provide.  It is always helpful to spend time to plan such cases in order to achieve predictable results.⁣⁣⁣
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In the example above, our patient has just completed orthodontic treatment and is now ready for retainers. Before the orthodontist fabricates the retainers, we wanted to address the aesthetics of the anterior teeth.⁣ ⁣⁣⁣
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Planning involves an occlusal exam, diagnostic photos and mounted models in centric relation to work out the smile design and the occlusion. The proposed changes are made on the mounted models. The photos illustrate the changes on the casts that include a wax up of the anterior teeth and occlusal equilibration.⁣ ⁣⁣⁣
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The treatment was sequenced in the following way: occlusal equilibration, bonding to lower canine teeth (to achieve anterior guidance), tissue contouring at #12 (upper right lateral incisor) and then direct composites on the upper maxillary teeth.⁣ ⁣⁣⁣
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Although challenging, the intrinsic rewards once the treatment is completed are enormous, not only for the patient but for me as well. I am so grateful to be a part of this process.