Tissue sculpturing: an alternative method for improving esthetics of anterior fixed prosthodontics

Esthetics associated with health of surrounding tissues in fixed prosthodontics is arduous, especially when treating the maxillary anterior region. An unfavorable relationship between residual ridge, pontic, and gingival papilla commonly compromises the final result. Alternative procedures based on biologic procedures can be developed to improve relationships and provide esthetic and functionally acceptable fixed partial dentures. This article describes a technique for the improvement of esthetics with conditioning of the tissue beneath the pontics, by displacing tissue with a treatment restoration. Lateral displacement of tissue under gradual, controlled pressure enhances the interdental papilla, which improves esthetics. The role of plaque control is also discussed in this article.