layer of composite will be required to mask the intense stain.
- If a tooth is already instanding or rotated, its appearance can be enhanced by a
thicker labial veneer.
New generation, highly polishable, hybrid composite resins can replace relatively
large amounts of missing tooth tissue as well as being used in thin sections as a
veneer. Combinations of shades can be used to simulate natural colour gradations and
hues.
Indications
(1) discolouration;
(2) enamel defects;
(3) diastemata;
(4) malpositioned teeth;
(5) large restorations.
Contraindications
(1) insufficient available enamel for bonding;
(2) oral habits, e.g. woodwind musicians.
Armamentarium
(1) rubber dam/contoured matrix strips (Vivadent);
(2) preparation and finishing burs;
(3) new generation, highly polishable, hybrid composite resin;
(4) Soflex discs (3M) and interproximal polishing strips.
Technique
- Use a tapered diamond bur to reduce labial enamel by 0.3-0.5 mm. Identify the
finish line at the gingival margin and also mesially and distally just labial to the
contact points. - Clean the tooth with a slurry of pumice in water. Wash and dry and select the shade
(538HFig. 10.7 (a)). - Isolate the tooth either with rubber dam or a contoured matrix strip. Hold this in
place by applying unfilled resin to its gingival side against the gingiva and curing for
10 s (539HFig. 10.7 (b)). - Etch the enamel for 60 s, wash, and dry.
- Where dentine is exposed apply dentine primer.
- Apply a thin layer of bonding resin to the labial surface with a brush and cure for
15 s. It may be necessary to use an opaquer at this stage if the discolouration is
intense.