Biomechanics and Function: Altering Paradigms to Treat a Patient's Esthetic Disability Conservatively

Area of Science:

• Conservative Dentistry
• Restorative Dentistry
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Recent advancements in bonding protocols enable predictable restorative material application on all tooth surfaces.
• Bonding composite and indirect restorations to posterior occlusal surfaces can modify occlusal vertical dimension (OVD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of conservative treatment for a constricted chewing pattern (CCP) by increasing OVD.
• To evaluate the efficacy of a minimally invasive additive approach using direct and indirect restorations.

Main Methods:

• A patient with CCP unwilling to undergo orthodontic therapy was treated.
• Occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) was increased using a combination of direct and indirect restorations.
• The additive approach focused on conservative treatment to address esthetics and function.

Main Results:

• The minimally invasive additive approach successfully increased the patient's OVD.
• Constricted chewing pattern (CCP) was alleviated.
• Esthetic goals were met while limiting functional and biomechanical risks.

Conclusions:

• Conservative dentistry, utilizing advanced bonding protocols, offers effective solutions for complex restorative cases.
• Increasing OVD with direct and indirect restorations is a viable conservative treatment for CCP.
• Minimally invasive additive techniques provide esthetic and functional benefits with reduced risks.