Midline diastema closure using the front wing technique

Challenge

The surface of the restorations showed slight discolorations which were removable by polishing. The shape of the teeth was acceptable, but not perfect. A decision was made to retreat her in a non-prep, single-shade approach. The main goal was to create a more natural shape. The front wing technique invented by the StyleItaliano team was used. This approach involved freehand modeling of the vestibular part of the tooth, which was easily accessible. Afterward, material was added to the palatal side, and anatomical matrices were employed for shape optimization.

Outcome

The technique worked beautifully to close the diastema. Despite freehand modeling, it was much easier and more precise than using a palatal silicone index. In addition to the natural shapes that were achieved, 3M Filtek Universal Restorative blended well with the surrounding dentition, making the restorative work indistinguishable.

Case Overview

Final Result

Anterior restorations were naturally shaped and virtually indistinguishable from natural tooth structure. The composite blended in perfectly with the color of the surrounding teeth.

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About the author

Dr. Walter Devoto graduated with honors in dentistry and dental prosthesis in 1991 at the University of Genoa, Italy. He is particularly interested in the fields of conservative dentistry and esthetic dentistry and runs his own private practices in Sestri Levante and Portofino. In addition, he is collaborating with diverse prestigious dental offices throughout Europe, which specialize in esthetic dentistry. He has worked as a teacher and demonstrator at the University of Genoa and as a lecturer at the universities of Siena and Madrid. Now, he is a lecturer at the International University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain, and visiting professor at the Aix-Marseille University in Marseille, France.