Minimally invasive approach in esthetic dentistry: composite resin versus ceramics veneers

Abstract

Unsatisfactory anatomical shape of anterior tooth promotes disharmony in the smile esthetics. The conservative dental esthetic reestablishment treatments has been improved and evaluated with the development of adhesive materials. The adhesive dentistry allowed minimally invasive preparation through direct treatments with composite resin and indirect ceramic laminates veneers. These two treatments methods present advantages and disadvantages. The aim of this manuscript is to describe two clinical reports and compare alternatives to rehabilitate the smile esthetic appearance by direct and indirect minimally invasive treatments.  In the first case, a 24-years-old patient, female, complained of unsatisfactory anterior maxillary size and incisal wear. After the functional and esthetic planning, nanoparticle composite resin by free hand technique was indicated to rehabilitation. In the second case, a 24-years-old patient, male, reported dissatisfied with his anterior central incisive shape. On clinical examination, maxillary anterior conoid teeth were verified. Based on this evaluation, a conservative treatment using minimally invasive ceramic veneers in maxillary central and lateral incisor and ceramic fragments on canine was planed to the smile rehabilitation. It can be concluded that conservative treatment using direct composite resin restorations and minimum thickness ceramic veneers laminate, even with their specific limitations and advantages, provide satisfactory esthetic and functional treatment results, preserving the dental structure.