How Well Do You Know Aesthetics in Dentistry?

Aesthetics in Dentistry: Factors and Principles for Achieving an Attractive Denture

• Aesthetics in dentistry is concerned with achieving beauty and attractiveness in dental restorations through form and color.
• Denture aesthetics is the combination of art and science in prosthodontics that affects the beauty, attractiveness, character, and dignity of an individual.
• Factors that influence the appearance of dentures include patient factors (sex, age, personality), tooth factors (position, color, size, form), denture base factors, and tooth/denture base factors.
• Steps in achieving aesthetic complete dentures include an accurate impression, establishing the correct vertical dimension of occlusion, selection of teeth, arrangement of teeth, and characterization.
• The thickness of the labial flange and border thickness of the dentures should vary according to the patient's residual ridge loss and facial contour.
• The accurate establishment of the vertical dimension of occlusion is critical in restoring normal physiological length to muscles and allowing normal facial expression.
• Teeth selection is crucial for function, speech, aesthetics, and maintaining the vertical dimension of occlusion. Anterior teeth are primarily selected for aesthetics, while posterior teeth are selected for function.
• The form, size, and mold of the anterior teeth are determined based on the patient's facial form, sex, personality, and age. Imperfection in the anterior tooth arrangement is necessary to create the illusion of natural teeth.
• The position of the teeth, orientation of the occlusal plane, and labiolingual inclination all have an influence on aesthetics. Biometric guides can improve the placement of teeth.
• The contour of the gingival margins at the necks of the teeth, the contour of the flange, and the color of the flange should be considered for a natural-looking denture.
• Characterization is the application of unique markings, indentations, coloration, and other custom means of delineation on a tooth or dental prosthesis to enhance the natural appearance.
• The final decision for aesthetics depends on maxillomandibular relationships, the patient's appearance, mental attitude, and functional requirements.