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Effective interdisciplinary collaboration in complex dental cases

From Volume 2, Issue 1, March 2025 | Pages 22-26

Authors

Bas Loomans

DDS, PhD, FCGDent, Professor of Oral Function and Restorative Dentistry

Articles by Bas Loomans

Email Bas Loomans

Johanna Maertens

DDS, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Orthodontics; Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands

Articles by Johanna Maertens

Abstract

Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for managing complex dental cases, ensuring predictable outcomes and patient satisfaction. This case report describes the comprehensive treatment of a patient with severe dental wear, requiring a combination of orthodontic and restorative interventions. The initial treatment plan included orthodontic correction to create space for restorative work. However, unforeseen challenges, such as short clinical crowns and deep bite-related bracket debonding, required an adjustment in the treatment sequence. Early restorative intervention with direct composite build-ups enabled successful orthodontic progress. The final phase included definitive composite restorations and retention to ensure occlusal stability and to help the patient smile again. This case emphasizes the importance of timely coordination among specialists, shared decision-making and adaptability in treatment planning. The patient reported high satisfaction with both aesthetic and functional outcomes. This case highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in achieving optimal, long-term dental rehabilitation results.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Collaboration with other disciplines, timely coordination and regular consultations ensure a win–win situation.

Article

Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for effectively managing complex dental cases, especially for patients with severe tooth wear and a need for orthodontic treatment. Coordinated efforts among orthodontists, restorative dentists and endodontists ensure that both functional and aesthetic rehabilitation is predictable and durable.1 Integrating orthodontic treatment with restorative dentistry facilitates space creation, bite correction and optimal tooth positioning prior to placing final restorations.2,3 Nonetheless, challenges, such as deep bites, short clinical crowns and bracket debonding, may require adjustments to the initial treatment sequence to secure successful outcomes.4

This article presents a case of severe dental wear managed through a staged orthodontic and restorative approach. Early complications necessitated mid-treatment composite restorations to stabilize the occlusion before further orthodontic progress could continue. The case highlights the importance of communication and shared decision-making among dental specialists, ultimately resulting in a well-functioning, aesthetically pleasing result.

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