Problems Addressed in Aesthetic Dentistry

Aesthetic Dentistry

Problems Addressed in Aesthetic Dentistry

• Discolored teeth

• Fractured, worn, or substance-lost teeth

• Crooked or rotated teeth

• Gaps between teeth

• Exposed root surfaces due to gum recession

• Aesthetic problems caused by tooth wear

Before any aesthetic treatment plan, accurate diagnosis and objective evaluation are the most important factors for success.

Smile Design is the general term for a series of aesthetic dental treatments aimed at helping individuals achieve a healthier and happier smile.
The main methods used within this scope include:

• Teeth Whitening

• Pink Aesthetics (Gum Aesthetics)

• Laminate Veneers

• Zirconium Restorations

• Implant Applications

• Orthodontic Treatment

• Cosmetic Dental Adjustments

Image 1: Our patient visiting our clinic with our dentist.

Most Common Methods in Aesthetic Dentistry:

1. Gum Aesthetics (Pink Aesthetics)

For natural, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing teeth, the appearance of the gums is also extremely important.
The healthy shape, symmetry, and color of the gums are indispensable elements of a beautiful smile design.
Excessive visibility of the gums while smiling or talking (known as a gummy smile) can negatively affect facial aesthetics.
In such cases, the position, shape, form, and pigmentation of the gums can be easily corrected through surgical methods.

These procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia using either laser or conventional surgical techniques.
Even small interventions on the gums can create noticeable aesthetic improvements in facial expression.
Before performing aesthetic porcelain or ceramic restorations, the gums must always be evaluated.
If necessary, surgical correction before the application of ceramics significantly enhances the overall aesthetic result.

Image 2: Two photos related to the gummy smile.

2. Porcelain Laminate Veneers (Leaf Porcelains)

Today, they are one of the most preferred methods in aesthetic dentistry.
The term lamina, which means “leaf” in Latin, refers to very thin porcelain restorations bonded to the front surface of the teeth with special adhesives.
Minimal preparation is performed only on the front surface of the teeth; after taking an impression, the porcelain restorations are fabricated in the laboratory and bonded to the teeth in the second session.

Lamina veneers can be applied in the following cases:

• Discolorations that cannot be corrected with teeth whitening

• Congenital structural abnormalities

• Closing gaps between teeth (diastema)

• Mild crowding or cases where orthodontic treatment is not desired

• Broken, worn, or previously restored teeth

Advantages:

• Very little tooth structure is removed (0.3–0.5 mm) or none at all.

• Durable and color-stable

• Provides natural and long-lasting aesthetics

Note: Not indicated for individuals with parafunctional habits such as nail biting, pencil chewing, or teeth grinding.

Image 3: Lamina veneer photo

1. Full Ceramic Crowns and Bridges

   They are used for teeth that have lost structure due to decay, fractures, or wear; for replacing missing teeth with bridge prostheses; and for aesthetic corrections.
   These restorations, which do not contain metal in their substructure, offer aesthetics and translucency closest to natural tooth tissue.

   Advantages:

   • No risk of metal allergy

   • Does not cause dark discoloration at the gum line

   • Translucency closely resembles natural teeth

   Image 4: Empress case photo

1. Overlay, Onlay, and Inlay (Porcelain Fillings)

   They are applied to teeth that have lost significant structure due to decay or fractures, or to teeth weakened after root canal treatment.
   They are more durable than conventional fillings and a more conservative solution compared to crowns.

   Application Process:

   • The decayed parts of the tooth are removed and the tooth is shaped appropriately.

   • A digital or conventional impression is taken and sent to the laboratory.

   • The prepared porcelain filling is bonded to the tooth with special adhesives.

   Advantages:

   • Maximum preservation of healthy tooth structure

   • Aesthetic, durable, and long-lasting

   • Highly resistant to chewing forces

   Image 5: Onlay photo

1. Cosmetic Adjustments (Contouring)

   It is the reshaping of natural teeth with minor enamel removal.
   It includes procedures such as correcting incisal edges, rounding sharp corners, or repairing small chips.

1. Direct Composite Bonding Application

   It is used for closing small gaps, correcting minor misalignments, or addressing discolorations.
   Minimal tooth structure is removed, and special composite materials are applied.

   Advantages:

   • Can be completed in a single session

   • Preserves natural tooth structure

   • Aesthetic and cost-effective solution

   However, since discoloration may occur over time, it may need to be renewed periodically depending on the patient’s diet and brushing habits.