A Peg Lateral, A Missing Tooth, and More

March 27, 2018 Richard Hunt DDS

Every patient has a story that makes their case unique. When we embrace their path to treatment and make an effort to understand their motivations, we can provide even more excellent care.

A great example of this simple lesson came in the form of my patient Anne. I knew Anne well, as she ‘grew up’ in our practice and had been a regular patient for many years. This fact added an unexpectedly challenging element to her case. I knew I needed to re-familiarize myself with her interests and background instead of taking our past relationship for granted.

Restorative Case For a Future Hygienist

Anne is nineteen and currently training to become a dental hygienist. Her personal dental experiences spurred her interest in the field. She’s excited to provide patient care that improves both oral health and self-image.

All of these details about Anne informed how I approached her treatment. Her primary esthetic concerns were a peg lateral #7 and a congenitally missing #10. She also had canted axial alignment, mottled enamel, and uneven gingival zeniths with a high smile line.

We decided on comprehensive restorative treatment approach that would correct these problems and provide her with a result she could readily show off. The treatment consisted of orthodontics, an implant for #10, and periodontal surgery to reposition gingival levels. We also moved ahead with occlusal equilibration and a diagnostic wax up.

To round out the case, we did tissue sculpting on #10 in addition to esthetic/functional testing and refinement via provisionals. Anne got beautiful e.max veneers on #5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11 and 12. Finally, she got an implant supported e.max crown on #10.

Matt Roberts CDT handled the lab side of Anne’s case and did a stellar job. She can now go forth confidently into her career and help others embrace treatment that can change their lives.

What case put a smile on your face recently? We’d love to hear what you think in the comments! 

Related Course

E4: Posterior Reconstruction and Completing the Comprehensive Treatment Sequence

DATE: July 31 2025 @ 8:00 am - August 4 2025 @ 2:30 pm

Location: The Pankey Institute

CE HOURS: 44

Dentist Tuition: $ 7400

Single Occupancy with Ensuite Private Bath (per night): $ 345

The purpose of this course is to help you develop mastery with complex cases involving advanced restorative procedures, precise sequencing and interdisciplinary coordination. Building on the learning in Essentials Three…

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About Author

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Richard Hunt DDS

Dr. Richard Hunt is a native of Rocky Mount, NC and represents the third generation of dentists in the Hunt family. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the UNC School of Dentistry in 1989. Dr. Richard has served his profession as president of the NC Dental Society and the Dental Foundation of N.C. He is also a former chair of the Dental Assisting National Board. Dr. Hunt realizes the importance of life long learning and attends over 100 hours of continuing education every year in order to remain knowledgeable about current topics and techniques in his profession. In turn, he also enjoys teaching other dentists about the joy, happiness and satisfaction that can be achieved through patient care based on a trusting relationship and clinical excellence. Dr. Hunt has served as a member of the Visiting Faculty of the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education in Key Biscayne, FL. since 2002. He returns regularly to teach dentists from around the world about the clinical and behavioral skills necessary to lead a progressive, health centered dental practice.

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