Tricks of the trade – a simple and aesthetic method of intruding upper incisors

Discrepancy in vertical tooth positioning may adversely affect anterior dental aesthetics. A simple technique which combines the use of a removable appliance and a composite button can be used effectively for the controlled intrusion of incisors.

The arrangement and position of teeth relative to one another and the surrounding soft tissues largely controls our smile aesthetics. Factors such as anterior crown length, crown width, midline proportions, tooth angulations and vertical tooth position may be critical to anterior dental aesthetics.¹ Discrepancy of the incisal edges of the anterior teeth, particularly in the upper jaw, could adversely affect dental aesthetics. In such situations intrusive movement has been recommended to realign the teeth and improve clinical crown length and bone margin levels.²

A light and continuous force (20 grams) is the prerequisite for the effective intrusion of a single anterior tooth. Tooth intrusion should only be attempted when the periodontal condition is under control and pocket depth is no more than 3 mm.² Fixed orthodontic appliances are the ideal treatment option for tooth intrusion.