New paradigms for anterior tooth preparation. Rationale and technique.

A biologic and esthetic rationale has been presented along with a simplified controlled technique to achieve predictable results (Figures 13A and 13B). The clinician is constantly faced with the challenge of developing room for esthetic material while preserving the biologic objectives. Using the three essential anterior tooth preparation keys (incisal edge, reduction requirements, and the biologic zone) enhances predictability. Developing the incisal edge relative to the dynamics of facial esthetics provides the initial starting point of tooth preparation. The reduction requirements are designed to satisfy the mechanical principles, address the pulpal concerns, and preserve the structural requirements of the tooth. The biologic zone can be developed by using the total dentogingival complex measurements and will clinically aid in the determination of cervical limitations to providing intracrevicular margin location.