In order to establish a comprehensive treatment plan, it is essential for the entire dental team to be able to visualize the final result before commencing treatment. A compromised or wrong treatment choice can affect a patient’s dental and medical health as well as their appearance. Orthodontists often are first in a decision-making process that can have lifetime consequences. Meticulous orthodontic planning is essential.
Historically orthodontists were not accustomed to dealing with patients requiring restorative intervention. However, patients often present with issues that are both orthodontic and restorative. The objectives of orthodontics may be different for the restorative patient compared to a patient not requiring restoration. 1) The teeth may have to be positioned by the orthodontist to facilitate specific restorations. 2) The teeth may have to be restored or placed in a provisional restoration before, during or after orthodontic treatment 3) Orthodontics may be required to correct tooth positions that may impede oral hygiene. 4) Orthodontics may be performed for elective or necessary periodontal reasons.
It is paramount for the dental health professional to recognize and be able to think globally and not limit their vision to their own specialty. With a coordinated treatment plan and a multidisciplinary team approach we can achieve predictable and pleasing results satisfying our patients for a lifetime.