The periodontal restorative interface: esthetic considerations

Esthetic considerations are a significant contributing factor in the management of prosthodontic cases and an interdisciplinary approach is often necessary to achieve an optimal result. The visible soft-tissue architecture plays a key role in developing an esthetic smile. Furthermore, an understanding of the relationship between the restorative margin and the gingiva is important for long-term stability of the result. The gingival architecture and gingival health are important for ensuring optimal esthetics following prosthodontic work and close attention to both soft and hard tissues around the teeth, before, during and after restorative procedures, will greatly improve the likelihood of a successful outcome. Moreover, knowing the options available in periodontal plastic surgery is important in esthetic dentistry today. The relevant literature related to restorative and surgical procedures when performing esthetic dentistry are reviewed in this article, and different approaches are illustrated with appropriate cases to explain the treatment approach that was utilized to improve the esthetic appearance of the case.