Aesthetic Preferences for Replacement of Missing Maxillary Lateral Incisors: A Comparison of Canine Substitution, Implants and Resin-Bonded Bridges Among Australian Dental Professionals and Laypeople

Background Aesthetic outcomes of treatment options for missing maxillary lateral incisors significantly influence patient satisfaction. This study compared aesthetic treatment outcome preferences for canine substitution, resin-bonded bridges and implants among Australian orthodontists, prosthodontists, general dentists and laypeople. Methods A cross-sectional online survey assessed attractiveness ratings and preferences using a ranking system and a Likert scale. One-way and two-way ANOVA examined differences by respondent group and treatment type. Results Among 547 respondents (orthodontists: 117, prosthodontists: 56, general dentists: 167, laypeople: 207), significant differences were found in aesthetic ratings (p < 0.001). Canine substitution was rated most attractive (mean rank = 1.43), followed by resin-bonded bridges (1.78), while implants (2.81) and no treatment (3.99) were rated lower. Two-way ANOVA showed significant main effects of treatment type and respondent group (p < 0.001), with an interaction effect indicating varied preferences among groups. Conclusions Canine substitution was the preferred treatment outcome aesthetically, particularly among orthodontists. Resin-bonded bridges were also favoured. These findings highlight the impact of professional background on aesthetic preferences and emphasise the need for patient-centred treatment planning.