Restorative Dentistry
Definition
[edit]Restorative Dentistry involves the restoration of natural teeth that have been damaged by decay, trauma, or erosion, as well as the replacement of missing teeth. The primary goal is to return the mouth to full function (mastication) while maintaining an aesthetic appearance.
Types of Restorations
[edit]Direct Restorations
[edit]These are performed in a single clinical appointment.
- Composite Resin: Tooth-colored material that provides excellent aesthetics and allows for conservative tooth preparation through Adhesive Dentistry.
- Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC): Often used in pediatric dentistry or as a base, known for releasing fluoride to prevent secondary decay.
- Amalgam: A mixture of metals (silver, mercury, tin, copper). While decreasing in popularity due to aesthetics and environmental concerns, it is highly durable for posterior teeth.
Indirect Restorations
[edit]These require at least two visits or the use of In-office Milling.
- Crowns: A "cap" that covers the entire tooth to provide strength when the remaining structure is compromised.
- Inlays and Onlays: Used when the damage is too great for a filling but not severe enough for a full crown.
- Veneers: Thin shells (porcelain or composite) bonded to the front of teeth, primarily for aesthetic enhancement.
Principles of Tooth Preparation
[edit]The success of a restoration depends on specific engineering principles:
- Retention Form: Features that prevent the restoration from being pulled out vertically.
- Resistance Form: Features that prevent the restoration or the tooth from fracturing under occlusal (biting) forces.
- Structural Durability: Ensuring the material has enough thickness to withstand wear.
- Marginal Integrity: The "seal" at the edge of the restoration to prevent bacteria from entering.
Materials in Restorative Dentistry
[edit]- Ceramics: E.max (Lithium Disilicate) and Zirconia are the current gold standards for indirect restorations.
- Resins: Light-cured polymers used for direct bonding.
- Metals: Gold alloys are still considered the most biocompatible and long-lasting material for posterior restorations, though less common today due to cost and aesthetics.