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cosmetic dentistry_ beauty & science International

12 I I clinical technique _ diastema closure _Diastema closure with direct composite restorations can be a conservative treatment modality to improve the appearance of a smile. However, without proper diagnosis and treatment planning even the simplest looking diastema can turn into a very disappointing situation for the patient, as well as for the den- tist. Diastemascanvaryinnumberand size(Fig.1).Causativefactorsinclude periodontal disease; traumatic oc- clusion;abnormalfraenulum;habits, including tongue thrust, tongue bit- ing, nail biting; missing teeth (owing to accident or the congenital ab- sence of a tooth bud); and hereditary factors.1 Treatment options for diastema closure depend on the number and size of the spaces and on the aesthetic demands of the patient. Orthodontic space closure should be considered, and is often the treat- ment choice, particularly for young patients.2 However, there are many situations where or- thodontic treatment is not an option. Resto- rative treatment modalities range from very conservative direct composite resin restorations, through less conservative porcelain veneers, to more invasive indirect full-coverage restora- tions. cosmeticdentistry 3_2011 Fig. 1_Pre-op view of diastema. Fig. 2_Photo-imaging technique to simulate space closure. Fig. 3_Diagnostic wax-up on a study model. Predictable diastema closureusinganinnovative, indirectmock-uptechnique Authors_ Prof So Ran Kwon & Prof Gerald E. Denehy, USA Fig. 1 Fig. 3Fig. 2