Cosmetic dentistry does not just mean smile design.
The materials and technologies developed for cosmetic dentistry also benefit other procedures
in less visible areas. Cosmetic dentistry can only achieve predictable and permanent results by
meticulous observation of technique, a thorough understanding of physical, chemical, and biological
properties of dental materials, and "discipline." With "discipline" is meant that a dental practitioner
should not just know how to establish an optimum operating field, but also do it. There is no way
you will have long-lasting and beautiful treatment outcomes, if somewhere along the line a step was
omitted, a "corner cut", or a material not properly applied, while observing the bigger picture, i.e.
your oral health, facial proportions, and the condition of your TMJ.
|
|
1. Unnatural-looking and black-appearing
amalgam restoration at a back tooth.
|
|
|
|
|
2. Rubberdam placed prior to procedure
to protect oral cavity of debris and to avoid
exposure of tooth to saliva.
|
|
|
|
|
3. Molar and bicuspid after removal
of old fillings.
|
|
|
|
|
4. Teeth checked for caries with 1%
Acid Red in propylene glycol base (red).
|
|
|
|
|
5. Application of etchant (blue) to
create a penetrable collagen-fibril network,
which allows the diffusion of hydrophilic
resins into the outer tooth structure.
|
|
|
|
|
6. Placement of a hydrophilic methacrylate
monomer (primer) that facilitates the bonding
of the resin of the filling material to the tooth.
The primer creates a hybrid
layer in the surface dentin that protects
the tooth to acid attacks (as caused by decay-causing
lactic acid released by bacteria).
|
|
|
|
|
7. The first layer of darker composite
material is placed to create a natural-appearing
deeper layer.
|
|
|
|
|
8. Fillings prior to their final adjustments.
|
|
|
|
|
9. The fillings after their final
adjustments and after removal of the rubberdam.
|
|
|
