Are you focusing enough on pink aesthetics in smile design?

What role does gingiva play in achieving a truly stunning smile?

When should you refer for recession around lower incisors or upper canines?

Can you get the gum to grow back through orthodontics? And how about class 5 restorations? Should we do them, or should we work on the gingival recession first?

In this episode, Jaz is joined by the expert Dr. Tidu Mankoo, who shares his extensive knowledge on the importance of gingival health in aesthetic dentistry. They dive into the crucial role of the dento-gingival complex. 

Protrusive Dental Pearl: Shade Matching

1. 
   
2. Composite button technique – a small blob of composite is applied to a dry tooth without etching or bonding to assess shade match and translucency, avoid excess thickness, which can affect opacity and aesthetics (Jason Smithson’s Tip: take a black-and-white photo to evaluate the composite’s value and ensure it matches the natural teeth)
   
3. Using a custom composite shade guide like Smile Line by Style Italiano for more precise shade matching.
   

https://drive.google.com/file/d/16jpUoKsZHBwUYxKTXi5lnHO4s693Dgfe/view?usp=sharing

Key Takeaways

• 
  
• Gingival architecture plays a vital role in aesthetics.
  
• Dentists should focus on patient-centered care.
  
• Understanding tooth position is key to treatment planning.
  
• Orthodontics can sometimes resolve gingival issues without surgery.
  
• Communication with patients is essential for effective treatment.
  
• Aesthetic dentistry requires a comprehensive approach.
  
• The dental field is evolving, and practitioners must adapt. Root coverage procedures can be effective with proper techniques.
  
• Understanding prognosis is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
  
• Aesthetic considerations are a primary reason for root coverage.
  
• Restorative dentistry should consider the position of the gingiva.
  
• Crown lengthening should not expose root surfaces unnecessarily.
  
• Mucogingival surgery plays a vital role in implant aesthetics.
  
• Education and training are essential for dental professionals.
  

Highlights for this episode:

• 
  
• 4:29 Protrusive Dental Pearl
  
• 6:16 Dr. Tidu Mankoo’s Journey and Inspirations
  
• 11:48 Reflections on Comprehensive Dentistryand Lifelong Learning
  
• 15:59 Balancing Work and Family in Dentistry
  
• 17:52 Understanding Gingival Architecture
  
• 19:49 Creating a Harmonious Smile
  
• 21:52 Addressing Gingival Aesthetics & Limitations
  
• 26:56 Orthodontics and Surgical Interventions
  
• 29:40 Root Coverage Procedures
  
• 33:49 The Value of Early Diagnosis and Referral
  
• 35:01 Indications for Root Coverage
  
• 36:03 Root Coverage vs. Class V Restorations
  
• 39:50 Managing Gingival Zenith Irregularities
  
• 41:23 Role of Mucogingival Surgery inImplant Success
  
• 47:47 Course on Mucogingival Surgery with IAS
  

This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C.

AGD Subject Code: 780 ESTHETICS/COSMETIC DENTISTRY

(Esthetic diagnosis and treatment of intraoral soft tissues) 

Dentists will be able to –

1. 
   
2. Discuss when and how to manage gingival recession, including the role of root coverage procedures.
   
3. Explore the anatomy and function of the dento-gingival complex and its influence on smile aesthetics.
   
4. Promote the value of early diagnosis and timely referrals to specialists for successful treatment.