Perioral soft-tissue rejuvenation techniques to enhance esthetic restorative dentistry

Every practitioner has the obligation to offer his or her patients the latest advances in their profession. Dentistry has made a shift over the past 50 years from caries restoration and prosthetic replacement to preventative and esthetic rejuvenation. Related dental specialties have also blossomed with new procedures and an expanded scope of practice. This shift has also included more comprehensive care and treatment of the oral and maxillofacial region. Modern esthetic dentists realize the facial soft tissues serve as a frame for their restorative artwork. Contemporary oral and maxillofacial surgery includes cosmetic facial surgery. Procedures for such surgery are taught in oral and maxillofacial surgery residency programs, are part of the oral and maxillofacial surgery board exams, and are covered by oral and maxillofacial surgery malpractice companies. Esthetic dentists should understand facial aging, as well as the basic procedures available for facial rejuvenation by the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Contemporary esthetic dentistry goes beyond the oral cavity, and the smile is truly enhanced by simultaneous facial rejuvenation. This article discusses the process of perioral facial aging and various cosmetic facial surgery options.