Merging orthodontics and restorative dentistry: an integral part of esthetic dentistry.

UNLABELLED: This article discusses the different approaches in treatment planning of patients who desire an esthetic and functional improvement of their dentition but are hesitant to sacrifice healthy tooth structure. Preservation of tooth structure, whenever possible, should be paramount to any practicing dentist. The importance of such an approach, as taught for so many years, appears to be fading away lately under the pressure of advertisements full of promises for quick esthetic solutions. Exploration of the link between orthodontic and conservative restoration, along with minor use of periodontal procedures, will give another perspective in solving the esthetic dilemma. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Often underutilized, the combination of procedures such as orthodontics and composite bonding gives practicing clinicians conservative, predictable, esthetic, and functional results.