Sidekick - Spring 2010 - (Page 26)

Less is More Although dentistry, in general, has been slow to adapt and endorse all of the benefits and capabilities of digital dentistry, with more and more options becoming available, the horizon and hopefully acceptance has now broadened. Today’s CAD/CAM systems–both chairside and laboratory based–are being used to design and manufacture metal, alumina, and zirconia frameworks, as well as all-ceramic and composite full-contour crowns, inlays, onlays and veneers that may be stronger, fit better, and are more aesthetic than restorations fabricated using traditional methods. The accuracy of these types of technologies also allows us to provide cosmetic and restorative options that are minimally invasive. There are more than 20 different CAD/CAM systems that have now been introduced as partial (framework, models) solutions for restorative dentistry. However, still only two promise to offer these options as well as complete chairside solutions for better dentistry. While many of us may have appreciated the evolution of each generation toward the desire of a “more perfect” and whiter smile, the pursuit of perfection is not always the reason to undergo a restorative dental procedure. Patients that have experienced oral trauma or need only minor cosmetic improvement can greatly benefit from this new approach and the capabilities of new technology. A conservative approach to restorative dentistry allows us to increase patient satisfaction and in some instances complete “minimal or no-prep” restorations without the need of local anesthetic or invasive procedures to hard or soft tissue, making the procedure quicker and less uncomfortable. CAD/CAM technology offers an option for cosmetic dentistry patients seeking an alternative to traditional dental veneers when direct composite bonding is not an option. Case Studies: A 22-year-old female with traumatic injury to the maxillary central incisors and left lateral was presented. The original tooth fragments were not available. After the gross initial examination the teeth in question were examined in detail, the teeth were found to be vital with no pulpal exposure. There was absolutely no discernable mobility and the patient was not Fig. 1 by Lida Swann, DDS Fig. 2 Fig. 3a Fig. 3b experiencing any distress or pain. In all other aspects the teeth did not show any other pathology. After detailed clinical observation and further evaluation of the photographs, it was noticed that there were areas of minimal tooth structure, which had been crushed at places along the fracture line and the break was not a clear cut. (Fig. 1) Hence, a decision was made to incorporate a small chamfer at the fracture line so that it could be masked more effectively with an indirect bonding procedure, which would also help in blending the ceramic restoration fragment seamlessly with the tooth. SIDEKICK 26 Spring 2010 Sidekick

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Sidekick - Spring 2010

Sidekick - Spring 2010
Contents
Dr. Morgan Scheiber
Here and Now and Beneficial for All
FICO Reveals How Common Credit Mistakes Affect Scores
Causes of Scheduling Stress
Less Is More
Quarterly Featured Designs
Dr. Mark Shuren
The Black and White Facts of Platinum
Henry Schein Financial Services
Surprising Trends in Laser Usage
Implementing Technology into the Restorative Dental Practice
Career Development: Digital Practice Analysis Tool
The GXCB-500: A Good Fit for Any Practice
Making the Right Impression for Your Patients and Practice
Dr. Wilton Guillory Jr. and Dr. David M. Carlton III
Privileges
Professional Practice Transitions

Sidekick - Spring 2010