cosmetic dentistry_ beauty & science International Edition

I case report _ ceramic veneers _My professional evolution proceeded in parallel with the change of the concept of “aesthetics”andtheaccompanyingtechnological revolutions. By nature, humans are open to novelties, regardless of the correctness of their application. Over time, my professional experi- ence has confirmed the principle that the key to success is thorough planning of each case, detailed diagnostics before commencing work, and the resulting proper selection of materials and procedures. Success is created by efficient communication between the patient, the dentist and the dental technician. Nowadays, patients can use all kinds of media (mostly online) to learn about dental problems they have. In many cases, patient education helps to establish expectations regarding a prosthetic solution. However, we should not forget that we should always realis- tically assess our reconstructive capabilities in a givencase.Myexperiencehastaughtmethatone should not submit to the patient’s desires if this interferes with a treatment plan or our feelings. The challenge for the whole team is to achieve a compromise between aesthetics, functionality and the technological possibilities. Achieving a common vision for the restoration ensures ultimate success and satisfaction. From the beginning of my professional career, I have sought to find a happy medium between my expectations, those of the patient and medical indications, to achieve full health and harmony of the smile. Contrary to appearances, it is an extremelydifficulttask,andthehigherthesenseof aestheticsthedentistpossesses,themoredifficult the task. Patients often come to me with a request to improve their smile and create beautiful teeth. As I have already mentioned, media and often dentists themselves have accustomed patients to the idea that beauty is defined by the whiteness of one’s teeth. As a result, the patient does not receivebeautiful,naturalandfunctionaldentition, but a set of white dentures, often made in a way that does not allow him or her to function ef- ficiently and perform basic hygiene. Frequently, in order to achieve such an effect, tooth tissue 18 I cosmeticdentistry 1_2014 Case 1: Figs. 1a & b_Exposure of teeth during smiling and a close-up of the stumps before preparation. Visible enamel discolouration caused by fluorosis. Figs. 2a & b_A mock-up of the planned restoration made in the patient’s mouth based on a wax-up. Control of smile and occlusion. Non-invasive reconstruction with ceramic veneers— Art or compromise? Authors_ Dr Magdalena Jaszczak-Małkowska & Robert Michalik, Poland Fig. 2bFig. 2a Fig. 1bFig. 1a CDE0114_18-25_Michalik 11.06.14 14:05 Seite 1