Tooth anatomy: a practical guide part 2: drawing anterior teeth

Abstract

Understanding the anatomy of anterior and posterior teeth is important as the main aims of restorative dentistry are to restore the form, function and often the aesthetics of damaged teeth. The appearance of individual anterior teeth is complex and variable. The three most important aesthetic determinants are widely considered to be tooth shape, surface texture and colour, which are further complicated by soft tissue and dento-facial factors. Learning how these interlinked anatomical features affect the aesthetic appearance of anterior teeth is difficult and presents challenges to teachers. Also, tooth anatomy teaching and clinical training in restorative dentistry may be separated by months or even years, making it difficult for students to apply previously learned anatomical principles to aesthetic restorative procedures. This is the second of two papers describing a series of step-by-step tooth drawing exercises which aim to simplify the teaching and learning of tooth anatomy. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Detailed understanding of tooth anatomy will help clinicians accurately and predictably plan the restoration of anterior teeth.