Clinical procedures designed to reestablish the idealized framework for the achievement of optimal esthetic restorative results have been frequently reported. Yet complex cases, where remarkable improvements of esthetic appearance are achievable in spite of preoperative conditions, are infrequently presented because the presentation standards appear to be set for idealized situations. If a classification system that reflects dental esthetic compromises and ideals existed, cases could be categorized accordingly, and realistic expectations could be applied to assess the effectiveness and results of a course of therapy. Considering that there is not currently a published classification system to this end, it is the purpose of this article to tender a classification of altered dental esthetics.