Many patients seeking cosmetic consultation do not want a dramatic “makeover.” Instead, they desire enhancement: a more refined version of their own smile, not a transformation into someone unrecognizable. In this case, the patient wanted his smile to feel “more filled out” and desired a “more even” smile. To achieve this goal, the lateral incisors would be enhanced and volume added to teeth Nos. 4, 5, 12, and 13 to better fill the buccal corridors. For patients seeking subtle change, shade matching becomes especially important. OMNICHROMA single-shade universal composite (Tokuyama Dental, tokuyama-us.com) has become one of the author’s favorite materials for creating natural, harmonious results, even for discerning patients. OMNICHROMA works particularly well when matching enamel in the A3 to BL4 range and can provide a greater range depending on the substrate. The author considers OMNICHROMA an ideal material for patients who want improved contours and a slightly brighter smile rather than for cases in which a major shade shift or significantly higher value is desired. Its polishability and optical properties are exceptional. This case effectively illustrates this principle and the author’s process. The outcome was remarkably natural, and the patient was especially pleased that the result was achieved in one appointment, with no enamel reduction and without an obvious “veneer look.”
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Shade matching is critical when treating patients who desire only subtle changes to their dentition and smile. OMNICHROMA single-shade universal composite is well-suited for achieving natural, harmonious results while helping to streamline the restorative process.
- OMNICHROMA’s paste-like consistency enables good sculptability and allows for the creation of accurate anatomy and lifelike restorations. OMNICHROMA BLOCKER resin composites feature pigments and dyes to supplement opaquing.
- In the technique presented, a mylar matrix was used with OMNICHROMA composites to create a frame around the tooth similar to a Class 1 restoration. The restorations mimicked the anatomy and surface texture of the adjacent teeth for a seamless, natural-looking outcome achieved with a single shade.
Figures and Images
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Andrew Ballard, DDS