Correction of Dysfunctional Wear Results in Esthetic Outcome for Reluctant Patient

Patients sometimes present with functional problems but may not be motivated to improve esthetics. By gaining an understanding of the patient's individual risk factors, clinicians can design treatment so that risk to the entire dentition is decreased while esthetics are improved. This case involved a patient concerned about wear on his upper front teeth and who was interested in the most predictable and efficient treatment possible. After a thorough diagnosis, risk assessment, and prognosis were carried out, an esthetic mock-up was used to play a key role in engaging the patient in both the cosmetic and functional benefits of the proposed treatment. The treatment required alleviation of a constricted chewing pattern and utilized an occlusal splint to protect against potential parafunctional clenching. Vertical dimension of occlusion was increased using minimally invasive methods. Incisal length was addressed additively, and esthetic crown lengthening was used to mitigate excessive tissue display.