Enhancing facial appearance with aesthetic dentistry, centric relation, and proper occlusal management.
Dramatic alterations that affect a person's appearance can be accomplished by changing the shade, shape, and location of individual teeth in the dental arch. With further application of scientifically documented anatomic principles, dentists can change a person's facial appearance without using unnatural tooth shapes and/or creating nonphysiologic changes in the masticatory system. What is most important is that the clinician does not have to open a patient's vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) to exact a change in facial aesthetics. A conservative approach that is harmonious with the natural human form can be successfully accomplished.


OBJECTIVE
This article presents a conservative methodology towards enhancing a patient's facial appearance in order to fulfill their aesthetic objectives. Upon reading this article, the reader should: Realize how a basic understanding of both the anatomy of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and how it interacts with the dentition can help provide a beneficial and stable occlusion for aesthetic dentistry. Understand how the VDO is established and how to decide when and if an increase of VDO is necessary for treatment.
Sesemann
Michael R
MR
msesemann@smilesonline.net
D000328:Adult; D016302:Centric Relation; D004955:Esthetics, Dental; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008310:Malocclusion / Q000628:therapy*; D019558:Occlusal Adjustment; D014716:Vertical Dimension