Is Occlusion and Comprehensive Dentistry Really That Important?

Abstract

Patient demand for cosmetic dentistry has never been greater. This has led many dentists to invest considerable time, effort, and money mastering various cosmetic procedures and techniques. While this is commendable, it should be recognized that it is one thing to be able to make beautiful teeth, and an entirely different thing to make beautiful teeth that actually last and function in harmony with the rest of the masticatory system. An acceptable cosmetic result, without regard for function and/or parafunction, will often result in premature case failure. What the truly successful clinician of today requires is a logical and systematic methodology in approaching cosmetic/restorative cases that will lead to a reasonably predictable and durable end result. The following case presentation describes how a comprehensive approach to dentistry, one that integrates both function and esthetics, can be used to successfully diagnose, treatment plan, and restore a cosmetic/restorative case.