Being a Restorative Matchmaker
Although some materials work better with certain cements or adhesives, objectively, it would be difficult to call out any particular combination as being "the perfect match." However, in a more subjective, case-by-case appraisal, there are certainly pairings that can represent a perfect match in specific restorative scenarios. A material needs to be able to meet the functional and esthetic requirements of the restoration's location in the mouth, and the selection of a cement or adhesive needs to meet the requirements of the chosen material, the retentiveness of the preparation, and the substrates involved. Furthermore, the success of any pairing will be dependent upon the clinician's ability to correctly employ the appropriate restorative protocol, and restorative protocols have become significantly more variable and manufacturer specific as the available materials have become more nuanced. Our March cover story explores how this relationship between material, cement, and protocol must be harmonized to meet each patient's individual needs and discusses the elements that are essential to achieving predictable success.
Exemplifying these principles, this month's inside restorative article presents a case in which a patient's smile goals were met with minimal preparation veneers. The author's choice of pressed lithium disilicate with a bonding protocol permitted restorations as thin as 0.3 mm, facilitating a conservative approach that delivered exceptional esthetics with high strength. Other articles in this issue include one that explores the use of regenerative periodontal therapy to treat localized aggressive periodontitis and a continuing education offering that addresses the quality control and monitoring of vaccines and discusses the role of oral healthcare providers in improving vaccination rates.
Whether you're looking at new restorative materials to find that perfect match or interested in implementing a new piece of technology, it can be difficult to find comprehensive information about products that goes beyond the instructions for use and safety data sheets provided by manufacturers. That's where Inside Dentistry's Product Talk comes in. A multimedia series featuring in-depth product education, Product Talk pairs host Mike DiTolla, DDS, with expert clinicians to discuss the real-world applications and benefits of featured products. We've captured some of the highlights from recent episodes in this issue, but you're sure to want to go online and watch the full discussions on AEGIS TV. Now in its fourth season, Product Talk is growing, and the Inside Dentistry team is working to expand the content into a truly comprehensive library of product education. We hope you find it to be both useful and enjoyable.
Robert C. Margeas, DDS
Editor-in-Chief, Inside Dentistry
Private Practice, Des Moines, Iowa
Adjunct Professor
Department of Operative Dentistry
University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
rmargeas_eic@aegiscomm.com
