Assist. Prof. K.Tolidis

Country - Institution

Dept. Operative Dentistry Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Title

The Art and Science of Immediate Aesthetic Restoration

Summary

Operative dentistry has changed significantly in the recent years with the most important being the change of addressing the tooth preparation procedures in view of adhering restorative materials and active prevention application. Adhesive restorative techniques have come a long way since Bis-GMA composite resin and acid etch treatment of enamel in the mid 50s, continuously evolving in the aspect of materials and devices alongside with the concept of minimally invasive dentistry.

Innovative devices for decay diagnosis especially on the difficult occlusal surfaces, new extra tissue-conserving modalities in the form of either burs or alternative cutting devices, in conjunction with new formulations of composite resins and dentine bonding agents allow for a significant change in the concept of operative management of dental decay. The issue of cavity disinfection is also addressed in the form of light activated disinfection devices. Overall the panorama of immediate aesthetic restorative procedures will be presented as to give dentists the opportunity to satisfy their patients with the less time and cost and the most of hard dental tissues preservation.

The key to success of immediate aesthetic restorations occurs in the knowledge of new devices and materials, their capabilities and limitations, as well as the growing experience in their use through detailed seminars and hands on courses.

The present lecture will focus on the art aspect of restorations as, layering technique for the placement of composite resins, change of shape and color of teeth, immediate intra-oral repair of composite and ceramic restorations as well as science issues regarding, differential diagnosis of hard dental tissue pathology, novice laser devices for caries diagnosis, minimal preparation devices, photo activated disinfection of cavities, polymerization shrinkage and its control, dentine bonding systems and light curing devices.