How is the facial margin of an anterior restoration often placed to achieve better esthetics?

The facial margin of an anterior restoration is often placed subgingivally to enhance esthetics. Positioning the margin below the gum line allows for a more natural integration of the restoration into the overall dental appearance. This placement can help conceal the margins of the restoration, making it less visible from both the facial and occlusal views. Additionally, a subgingival margin can aid in achieving a seamless transition between the restoration and the natural tooth structure, allowing for improved color matching and translucency that mimics the natural dentition more effectively.

In the context of aesthetics, this technique is particularly beneficial for anterior restorations, where visibility and natural appearance are critical. This approach can also help in cases where the clinical crown length is short or when there is a significant risk of gingival recession that may expose unsightly margins in the future.