Maxillary esthetics, mandibular function: a rationale for predictable treatment of the moderately worn dentition

An older patient presented with concerns about tooth wear. A treatment plan driven by the dominant risk factors of esthetics and function was preceded by a comprehensive evaluation to determine the etiology of the moderately worn dentition. Treatment goals included lengthening maxillary teeth, leveling the posterior occlusal planes, opening the vertical dimension of occlusion, and establishing bilateral simultaneous posterior occlusion. Esthetic parameters were established with the maxillary arch, enabling the functional goals to be addressed with treatment in the mandibular arch.