A Communication Guide for Orthodontic-Restorative Collaborations: Digital Smile Design Outline Tool

Ideally, Orthodontic-Restorative cases are planned alongside from the beginning, however, in some instances the restorative dentist encounters the patient for esthetic evaluation near the end of orthodontic phase. This is a high-stakes evaluation because the decision to remove brackets implies that refinement of tooth positioning cannot occur unless the patient re-enters orthodontic treatment. One challenge in multidisciplinary treatment is accommodating effective communication between providers and employing Digital Smile Design outline tool as a visual aid can help optimizing treatment outcome. This article discusses the importance and steps utilizing digital outline tool to provide quick and effective communication on treatment progress and recommendations.