Cosmetic dentistry beauty & science

12 I I CE article _ adhesive dentistry flash and excess flowable composite was “buffed” with a short flame carbide while the interproximal margins were adjusted with bullet or needle carbides. A Bard Parker #12 scalpel and Qwik Strip (Axis) were used to remove interproximal ce- ment and then the remaining floss was used to floss out any remaining cement and to ensure proper at-home flossing. Once the ideal occlusion was established, diamond-impregnated points and/or cups were used to polish the restoration, starting with the coarsest grit first and finishing with the finest grit for a smooth finish while a PDQ composite polishing brush (Axis Dental) with composite polishing paste (Enamelize, Cosmedent) made for a final high shine. _Conclusion There are certainly clear advantages for both the patient and the dentist when doing indirect composite resin restorations. These restorations have helped us save patients’ teeth, time and money. Over the last 20 years, we have tweaked, updated and modified these restorations in terms of techniques, materials and equipment. These restorations not only save time and con- servehealthytoothstructure,theyareavaluable service to provide to our patients; and they ap- preciate it. Direct composites are an essential part of our armamentarium. Nevertheless, indirect com- posite restorations have many advantages, es- pecially when dealing with multiple restorations involving adjacent interproximal surfaces. There issimplynocomparisonbetweenthestrengthof these materials made outside of the mouth with those cured in the mouth. Moreover, it is much easier to build, control, polish and finish the occlusal, interproximal and facial/lingual morphology in the laboratory. Patients appreciate the numerous benefits of both direct and indirect composites, and they especially appreciate not having to be in cum- bersome temporaries or having an inconvenient second appointment. Perhaps the greatest advantage for the pa- tient is being able to conserve the maximum amount of healthy structure while saving time and money—all at the same time. “The trend in dentistry today is clearly toward more esthetic and less invasive. Indirect resin and ceramic inlays and onlays are not only compatible with this trend, but fulfill very nicely the restorative voidbetweenfillingsandcrowns,”saidRonaldD. Jackson, DDS, FAGD, FAACD (Cosmetic Tribune US Edition, Vol. 1, Nov. 4, Dec. 2008). Regarding durability, esthetic inlays and onlays are not new anymore. They have a record of accomplishment, and it is good. Wherever you practice, and however you practice, these restorations are durable, aesthetic, economical and very much appreciated!_ cosmeticdentistry 3_2013 Dr Lorin Berland,a fellow of theAACD,pioneered the dental spa concept in his multi-clinician practice in the DallasArts District. His unique approach to dentistry has been featured on television (‘20/20’) and in national publications and major dental journals,includingTime magazine. In 2008,he was honored by theAACD for his contributions to the art and science of cosmetic dentistry.For more information onThe Lorin Library Smile Style Guide,www.denturewearers.com and the Biomimetic Same Day Inlay/Onlay 8AGD Credits CD/ROM,call +1 (214) 999-0110 or visit www.berlanddentalarts.com. Dr Sarah Kong graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry where she has served on the faculty in the department of restorative dentistry.She was voted aTexas Super Dentist andTexas Best General Dentist for general dentistry by her peers.Kong is part of a unique multispecialty private practice group in Dallas, www.berlanddentalarts.com,where she focuses on preventive,cosmetic,restorative and pediatric care as well as oral appliance therapy forTMJ, snoring and sleep apnea.Kong is an active member in numerous professional organizations,such as theAmericanAcademy of Cosmetic Dentistry, American DentalAssociation,Academy of General Dentistry,Texas DentalAssociation and Dallas County Dental Society,where she has served on the membership committee and the peer-review board. cosmeticdentistry _about the authors