Evaluation of abutment teeth in prosthodontics. Orthodontic evaluation and the choice of prostheses

Abstract

The aim of the orthodontic therapy is to overall enhance the esthetics and the function of the stomatognathic system and thereby advance oral health, while improving patients’ quality of life at the same time. In this respect, it is often essential that orthodontic therapy supports and is supported by other dental specialties. There are indications for a close collaboration between Orthodontics and Prosthodontics, in cases where orthodontic movement of the teeth and elimination of edentulous areas is impossible. In these cases orthodontic movement of the teeth to the desirable positions can modify the treatment plan towards a prosthetic rehabilitation that is more favorable to the tissues and lead to an improvement of the prognosis or the esthetic result. One of the most important factors for a successful orthodontic treatment is the absolute control of the periodontal health, especially in patients with periodontal disease. In those cases, the close collaboration between orthodontists and periodontists is necessary, both in the phase of diagnosis and treatment planning, as well as during the whole treatment phase. A carefully planned orthodontic movement of periodontally involved teeth, under the condition that a strict protocol for periodontal maintenance is followed, can improve the prognosis or the esthetic result of the periodontal treatment. After the completion of the periodontal, orthodontic and endodontic treatment, the dentist is required to make a decision on the final choice of the teeth that will be used for the patient’s final prosthetic restoration. Important factors are the clinical performance of the temporary restorations, the patient’s oral health during that phase, the esthetic requirements, as well as the type of the final prosthesis.