Direct bonding in diastema closure--high drama, immediate resolution.

Aesthetic rehabilitation in complex diastema closure cases is guided by the principles of proportion. The width to length ratio of the centrals must be pleasing. Achievement of this proper balance dictates treatment. It determines the following: 1) the amount of distal proximal reduction; 2) the decision to completely veneer the incisors vs. just adding to the interproximal; 3) the number of teeth to be treated; 4) the placement and location of naturally occurring prominences and concavities to create the illusion of a narrower tooth. The proper accommodation of these four topics will permit the maintenance or restoration of acceptable dimensions in the centrals. If they are made to appear harmonious then the principle of "golden proportion" (1.6:1:0.6) can be achieved among the centrals, laterals and cuspids. Direct bonding in diastema closure cases allow the dentist and the patient complete control in the formation of that smile. This treatment modality is challenging and ultimately rewarding for the patient and the dentist. At times it enables us to restore form and function and to make our patients whole again not just figuratively but literally.