cosmetic dentistry_ beauty & science

I 03 editorial _ cosmetic dentistry I cosmeticdentistry 2_2013 _Colour measurement of human teeth and restorative materials has become an integralcomponentofbothclinicalpracticeanddentalresearch.Thisimportanceisreflected intheimmensegrowthoftheSocietyforColorandAppearanceinDentistry(SCAD),founded in 2008 as a consortium of dental professionals and other experts interested in the area of aesthetic dentistry specially related to scientific investigation and the relationship between colour and appearance. Colourmatchinghasalwaysbeenachallenge,especiallyintheanteriorregion,regardless of the restorative materials used. Although many regard ceramics as the restorative material ofchoiceforensuringincreasedlongevityandsuperioraesthetics,compositematerialshave beengainingfavourbecauseoftheirminimallyinvasivenature,excellentaestheticpotential, and relatively low cost. Restoration using composite has evolved dramatically with the development of new resin composite materials with excellent optical properties emulating dentine and enamel. Proper application of the natural layering technique, which seeks to imitatetheopticalandanatomicalcharacteristicsofnaturalteeth,usingthesenewcomposite materialscanprovidesolutionstoovercometheaestheticchallengesfacedinsomanyclinical situations. With the increased development and evolution of digitally created restorations, the rationale for material selection in ceramic restorations has changed significantly. However, even with the introduction of high-technology devices, there is still a need for proper interpretation of shade information in creating the ceramic build-up and the illusion of a natural tooth by ceramic layering techniques. Special emphasis in colour matching has been placed on the critical pink interface. The underlying titanium implant may shine through delicate peri-implant mucosa, resulting in the greyish appearance of the gingival cuff. Optical evaluation of the gingival colour and a multidisciplinary approach to the interface planning will simplify treatment and provide predictable aesthetic outcomes. In this issue of cosmetic dentistry, we have included beautifully illustrated and well- documented articles that report on restorations with resin composites and ceramics. I hope you will enjoy this edition and successfully apply your new knowledge to your daily practice. Yours faithfully, Dr So Ran Kwon Co-Editor-in-Chief President, Korean Bleaching Society Seoul, Korea Dear Reader, Dr So Ran Kwon Co-Editor-in-Chief