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I nside a patient’s mouth, the upper anterior incisors and canines are sometimes referred to by dentists as the “social six,” a nod to the importance of aesthetics when it comes to these very visible anterior teeth. Regardless of how well they’re cared for, the alignment of anterior teeth gradually changes as a result of the aging process, and interdental space or protrusions occur with periodontal disease. Therefore, orthodontic treatment for anterior teeth is increasingly in demand for image-conscious adults. orthodontic treatment without invasive tooth preparation Most patients come to our dental clinic complaining of anterior crowding or protrusions. Rapid orthodontic treatment is one option that has been advertised widely in recent years, but this treatment option is often a high- ly invasive treatment known as a “dental laminate.” The method is totally different from conventional orthodon- tic treatment, as the intact tooth structure is removed through an intensive process called tooth preparation (the removal of unhealthy material before the procedure begins). It’s fast, but the damage done to your teeth is irreversible. In addition, the actual long-term prognosis for the function and aesthetics of the laminate are questionable when endodontic treatment is added from excessive tooth preparation. When handled properly, orthodontic treatment for aligning the anterior teeth is a noninvasive treatment, and this approach can be applied selectively to the anterior teeth when posterior occlusion is suit- able. How to have beautiful teeth without invasive preparation For further information or reservations, call Ms. Kelly Soe, the English coordinator at Yonsei University Dental Hospital. +82 2 2228 8998 +82 2 363 0396 idc@yuhs.ac 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul www.yuhs.or.kr/ en/hospitals/dent_ hospital/Conserv_ dentist/Intro COLUMN • YonsEI UnIvErsITY dEnTaL HosPITaL Jung-Yul Cha, DDS, Ph.D. Associate Professor Department of Orthodontics Dental College, Yonsei University Seodaemun-gu, Yonsei-ro 50, Seoul, Korea variety of approaches possible for anterior aligning treatment For anterior teeth alignment, it is possible to target specific teeth using invisible treatments such as clear aligner or lingual orthodontic treatment. Both these approaches are suitable for adults without causing any social embarrassment from wearing a device. In recent years, many small orthodontic appliances have been introduced to improve occlusion while also helping re- duce patients’ discomfort and treatment periods. One must keep in mind, however, that selective alignment is a limited treatment and assumes the pa- tient has had a harmonious occlusion. Therefore, a more comprehensive treatment may also be chosen by orthodontic specialists for a patient who has a major occlusion problem, severe protrusion and rotation of the anterior teeth, which can help guarantee a long- term prognosis without the risk of relapse (reverting back to crowding). Lifetime retention is recommended Once misalignment of the anterior teeth is resolved properly, patients want good retention for life. Fixed retainers can be applied into the lingual side of the anterior teeth to prevent dental relapse. This retainer is very thin and nearly invisible, but periodic checkups are essential to maintain retention over the years. A beautiful smile and beautiful teeth alignment can be achieved and maintained by persistent interest in oral health.