The impact of etching time and material on bond strength of self-adhesive resin cement to eroded enamel

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of pre-etching time and material on shear bond strength (SBS) of self-adhesive resin cements to eroded and sound enamel. Eroded enamel specimens were assigned into 5 groups (n=20 each) based on enamel surface treatment as follow: Group N, eroded enamel (without surface pre-treatment); Group PH15, 35% H₃PO₄ etching for 15 s; Group PH30, 35% H₃PO₄ etching for 30 s; Group L30, 20% lactic acid etching for 30 s and Group L60, 20% lactic acid etching for 60 s.Composite blocks were fabricated and cemented to enamel surfaces with one of two self-adhesive cements. Notched-edge SBS was assessed. Bond strength of self-adhesive cement to eroded enamel surface significantly enhanced following application of 20% lactic acid for 30 s.

Implementation and experience of a new method for posterior vertical bite reconstruction using direct resin composite restorations in the private practice--a survey

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present survey was to evaluate the implementation and experience of a new method for posterior vertical bite reconstruction using direct resin composite restorations by private practitioners who attended a hands-on continuing education course on this technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the years 2007 and 2008, 17 1-day continuing education courses on vertical bite reconstruction in the worn dentition by using direct resin composite restorations were attended by 310 participants. A 13-item questionnaire was posted to all course participants in April 2009 seeking information on the acceptance, implementation and experience of the presented technique in the private practice.

RESULTS

A total of 97 (31%) questionnaires were returned, whereas 67% of the respondents had used the presented technique. Analysis of the overall experience and satisfaction with the placed resin composite restorations using visual analog scale (VAS) revealed a mean VAS score of 7.2 ± 1.7 (0 = maximal unsatisfied, 10 = maximal satisfied). The direct resin composite restorations were predominantly rated 'good' within the assessed criteria surface texture, anatomical form, marginal integrity, marginal discoloration and color match. Ninety-eight percent of the private practitioners stated that they would continue to carry out vertical bite reconstructions according to this technique. The three most frequently observed clinical problems were related to marginal discolorations, bulk fractures and adhesive failures.

CONCLUSION

The presented restoration method was well accepted by private practitioners who used this treatment approach at least once after course participation, even though some clinical problems were observed.

Minimally Invasive Intervention in a Case of a Noncarious Lesion and Severe Loss of Tooth Structure

The present article describes a minimally invasive technique used for the restoration of loss of tooth structure caused by erosion of intrinsic etiology. First, the cause of erosion was treated and controlled. Subsequently, taking into consideration patient characteristics, especially a young age, a more conservative technique was chosen for dental rehabilitation with the use of composite resin. The advantages and disadvantages of the technique employed are discussed.