A Stepwise Approach to Class II Composite Restorations
DENTSPLY Caulk’s solution helps lead to consistently positive outcomes
Since the introduction of resin-based, light-cure composite in the 1970s, practitioners have attempted to leverage materials and techniques to achieve successful placement of composite restorations in all clinical situations. Because the process of completing composite restorations is exacting and tedious, unique challenges such as isolation, adhesion, material placement, and polishability can directly impact the outcome of the procedure.
Why shouldn’t restorative dentists consider a specially designed and coordinated system for the placement of posterior restorations, specifically Class II restorations? Other facets of dentistry currently use systems or process solutions; implant placement kits, for example, are designed to help practitioners overcome challenges and follow a path to successful clinical outcomes.
In the case of Class II composite restorations, challenges include the creation of appropriate interproximal contacts and anatomical contour, achieving marginal seal, and prevention of postoperative sensitivity, marginal staining, recurrent caries, and fracture. Formulating a solution for creating consistently excellent Class II composite restorations therefore requires a process for both materials and techniques.
To this point, many dentists have put varying equipment and materials together to form their own Class II system, but these hodgepodge systems may include materials from different manufacturers. Using the “this works best in my hands” argument, practitioners may assemble their own Class II solution based on completion of repetitive procedures and clinical observation.
DENTSPLY Caulk has designed a Class II composite resin restorative solution based on aligning products to overcome the stated challenges (Figure 1). From isolation of the preparation to finishing of the cured restoration, the DENTSPLY Caulk solution should provide outstanding clinical results with increased efficiency and simplified material choices (Figure 2).
Palodent® Plus Sectional Matrix System
To avoid issues such as fractures, food traps, and gingival inflammation, restoring natural contact and contour is essential. To ensure tight, accurate contacts on all Class II restorations, take a strong first step with Palodent® Plus Sectional Matrix System, now featuring EZ Coat matrices with a non-stick finish for easier removal.
Prime&Bond Elect® Universal Dental Adhesive
Depending on preparation size, depth, and available enamel, the type of etching method used can influence bond strength and postoperative sensitivity levels. Prime&Bond Elect Universal Dental Adhesive allows practitioners to elect a total-etch, self-etch, or selective etch technique according to the clinical situation.
SureFil® SDR® flow
Minimizing the potential for polymerization shrinkage stress and maximizing adaptation of your restorative material helps mitigate the potential for sensitivity and recurrent caries. After isolation and adhesion, the first layer of restorative material should be placed using SureFil SDR flow.
TPH Spectra® Universal Composite
For the final occlusal layer of the restoration, TPH Spectra provides a strong, durable, and natural-looking restoration. TPH Spectra also comes in two handling choices: a creamy light-viscosity (LV) formulation, and a packable high-viscosity (HV) formulation.
Enhance® Finishing System
The creation of ideal surface polish of a composite restoration can improve its esthetics and longevity by reducing stain potential, biofilm accumulation, and gingival inflammation, and by minimizing wear. Enhance consists of a single-use, pre-mounted, aluminum oxide impregnated finisher designed to finish and polish composites such as TPH Spectra.
For more information, contact:
DENTSPLY Caulk
800-532-2855
www.caulk.com
