Esthetic treatment planning: the grid analysis system.

Abstract

It is sometimes difficult to identify esthetic problems let alone pre-visualize an esthetic end-result. The Esthetic Grid Analysis is a system for analyzing the basic problems that detract from the concept of an attractive smile. A photograph is taken of the anterior teeth with the lips retracted. The upper and lower frame of the photograph is aligned parallel with the interpupillary line, assuming that the interpupillary line is parallel with the horizon. Where this is not the case, the vertical margins of the photograph are aligned parallel with the facial midline. Through orienting the photograph to the facial guidelines and incorporating the idealized positions of the incisal plane, highest lipline, midline axis, and proportionate contact areas, a grid is formed. The grid built from these components provides a method of demonstrating deviations from an esthetic arrangement of anterior teeth. Integrating facial guidelines with the dental composition using a grid highlights deviations from the ideal. It thereby assists in the treatment planning process by communicating esthetic problems to the patient, laboratory personnel, and other specialists.